LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Xavier Coates, the Papua New Guinea-born winger for Melbourne Storm, has dismissed the possibility of joining the new expansion team based in Port Moresby, which will enter the NRL in 2028.
Coates is set to become a free agent at the end of 2026, allowing him to negotiate with other clubs starting November 1, 2023, if he doesn't renew his contract.
According to reports from zerotackle.com, the Storm is planning to begin contract negotiations with Coates and teammates Harry Grant and Jahrome Hughes, who are also out of contract in 2026.
The immediate challenge for the Storm is the entry of the Perth Bears into the league in 2027, as they will be able to sign players starting November 1 of this year for their inaugural season.
Despite the interest from the new team, Coates expressed his preference to stay with Melbourne, stating, "I would prefer to remain with Melbourne," and acknowledged uncertainty regarding how the Port Moresby team will function.