Cameron Munster's future in the NRL is under scrutiny, with the star set to enter the open market on November 1.
This development has raised eyebrows within the league, especially considering the Melbourne Storm's head coach Craig Bellamy's recent comments regarding Munster's potential departure.
While Bellamy expressed that the club will strive to keep Munster, he also acknowledged that they will not obstruct him if he decides to leave.
"Cameron has done such a great job for the club. He's been there a long time," Bellamy remarked after the Storm's victory over the Cronulla Sharks.
He added, "If he sees himself better off going to another club, we're not going to argue with that."
Reports suggest that the Storm has offered Munster only about $750,000 annually beyond his existing contract, which ends after the 2027 season.
This offer constitutes a salary reduction of approximately $300,000, as Munster searches for a lucrative final deal before retirement.
Although Munster has long been intertwined with the Storm, he has been a focal point in contract discussions lately, previously linked to clubs such as the Dolphins and the Perth Bears.
Adding to the narrative, Munster has plans to tour Papua New Guinea after delaying the trip due to an earlier injury.
As the situation unfolds, Munster's potential choices and the Storm's efforts to retain him will capture much attention in the coming days.