LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
The Melbourne Storm are facing a crucial decision regarding their star fullback, Ryan Papenhuyzen.
Papenhuyzen's contract negotiations with the Eels have hit a snag, with the Eels opting to turn their back on a lucrative $850,000 move for the young prodigy.
While the Storm are currently enjoying a break after a dominant performance in the NRL finals, speculation surrounding Papenhuyzen's future continues to swirl.
As the Storm rest their squad during the finals, Papenhuyzen, affectionately known as the "gun fullback," is contemplating his next move.
The 26-year-old is on the verge of signing a contract extension with the Melbourne club, with the likes of Billy Slater and his wife Nicole playing a key role in keeping him focused.
Papenhuyzen's agent has reportedly been in talks with Storm officials to finalize a new three-year deal.
However, Papenhuyzen's current contract only runs until the end of the 2025 season, leaving the door open for rival NRL clubs to swoop in come November 1.
Despite Storm fans hoping to secure Papenhuyzen's future at the club, there is a real possibility that they could lose out on Faalogo in the process.
In the high-stakes world of Rugby League contracts, the Storm must carefully navigate this situation to ensure they don't lose their star player while also weighing up the potential gamble of losing Faalogo.
Only time will tell how this development will play out for the Melbourne Storm and their fullback dilemma.