Cooper Bai played 23 matches for the Gold Coast in 2026, starting at lock or coming off the bench, scoring twice and making 13 tackle breaks.
His tackle efficiency exceeded 90%, but The Daily Telegraph reported the Titans could send him to Queensland Cup in 2027 rather than pick him in first grade.
Under contract for 2027, Bai has agreed to join Melbourne on a three-year deal from 2028. Both he and the Storm reportedly want to bring the move forward by a year.
Coach Josh Hannay says the Titans will not accept a transfer fee and would require a player who strengthens their forward pack.
"We're not interested in money or a transfer fee," Hannay told The Daily Telegraph.
Hannay said there had been no further movement since Bai's Melbourne deal was announced, and the club had received no inquiry from his management.
The Titans had been willing to consider Queensland representative forwards Trent Loiero or Alec MacDonald in a swap, but Melbourne is reportedly reluctant to release either.
Hannay said he was not particularly disappointed by the prospect of losing Bai, citing the club's recent retention success.
"If anything happens, it will be to the benefit."