The head coach of the North Queensland Cowboys, Todd Payten, has dismissed the claims regarding a contract offer made to veteran prop Matthew Lodge.
According to a recent report from News Corp, the Cowboys were said to have proposed a one-year extension to Lodge, who is reportedly seeking a two-year deal either with the team or another club.
The article also mentioned that several NRL clubs, as well as teams from the English Super League, have shown interest in Lodge, with multiple clubs monitoring his situation over recent months.
However, during a press conference on Friday, Payten clarified that no offer has been made to Lodge, emphasizing that the club's focus lies on securing the signature of Kaiden Lahrs first.
Lodge has expressed his desire to stay in Townsville, making his intentions clear to the team.
Payten stated, "I did read that. I have been talking to Matt a little bit around what the future holds for us and him. There hasn't been an offer put towards him."
He continued, "The first priority is to lock away Kaiden Lahrs, and then see where the roster sits after that."
Additionally, Payten noted, "I know he has some interest to go down south. He has expressed he wants to stay, but there are some other moving pieces before we nail down 'Lodgey'."
Finally, Payten remarked on Lodge's contributions, saying, "What I will say is that he has come here, worked really hard and has had a positive impact on the playing group. He is a smart footballer."