LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
The management team of Gold Coast Titans captain Tino Fa'asuamaleaui has denied rumors about discussions with the Melbourne Storm regarding a potential transfer.
Brandon Smith, Fa'asuamaleaui's former teammate at the Storm and currently playing for the South Sydney Rabbitohs, mentioned on this week's episode of The Bye Round Podcast with James Graham that he had "heard a 'whisper'" about Fa'asuamaleaui possibly returning to Melbourne.
According to Smith, the Storm might consider allowing Nelson Asofa-Solomona, who has been linked to the emerging Rugby 360 competition, to leave the club in order to facilitate Fa'asuamaleaui's return. This would mean Fa'asuamaleaui could rejoin the club where he began his career in 2027 and be in immediate contention for a premiership.
Although the Titans have faced challenges in their performance, Fa'asuamaleaui is contracted with them until the end of 2033. However, player options kick in from 2027, allowing him the opportunity to negotiate with other clubs starting November 1.
There have been indications that he may indeed explore those options soon, with multiple reports suggesting that the Perth Bears are likely to make a significant offer. Additionally, the St George Illawarra Dragons and Canterbury Bulldogs have expressed interest in the player.
Despite these rumors, his manager, Simon Mammino, emphasized in a statement to Wide World of Sports that they have "not spoken to anyone yet."