Michael Chammas, head of football for the PNG Chiefs, has shed light on the status of Alex Johnston's playing contract.
Last week, rumors circulated claiming that Johnston had finalized a contract with the Chiefs, yet an official confirmation remains outstanding.
In response to contradicting reports, Johnston took to Instagram to announce the news, despite the ongoing uncertainty regarding a deal.
Chammas clarified that certain details still need addressing, emphasizing that a formal contract has yet to be established for the Papua New Guinea representative.
"We have been in conversations with Alex for a little while now. Those conversations are ongoing, but we haven't issued or signed a contract," Chammas stated.
He further mentioned, "We have made it clear from the outset that we see him playing a pivotal role at the club so we hope we can do something with him in the coming days."
"We are in the process now of putting together the final pieces of that, so I'm confident that in the next few days things will be put in place," he added.
Chammas concluded, "Alex knows how important he is to us, and how important he is to the country, so we hope we will get that done."
If Johnston, the NRL's all-time leading try-scorer, signs on, it will be a significant achievement for the Melanesian club, especially alongside Luai, a four-time premiership winner.