LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Dane Gagai, a former State of Origin star and standout for the Newcastle Knights, is on the move after the club decided against extending his contract.
Despite being one of the few bright spots in a struggling Knights squad this season, the 34-year-old will not have his team option picked up.
Currently earning $400,000 a year, Gagai faces the reality of the Knights prioritizing younger players amid salary cap constraints, with key investments like captain Kalyn Ponga's $1.4 million deal and Dylan Brown's upcoming 10-year, $13 million contract.
Fans have urged the Knights to reconsider their decision regarding Gagai, who made it clear he has no issue returning to Sydney to continue his career.
"I'll leave if I have to," Gagai stated in an interview with The Newcastle Herald.
"I love the club but I'll have no qualms about moving back to Sydney if that's the way it works out.
I've left it with my manager.
I don't want to say too much.
We'll see what happens."
Gagai has been a reliable performer for the Knights over multiple seasons, including 22 Origin games for Queensland, and his potential availability is likely to attract interest from rival NRL clubs.
Even if he were to accept a pay cut, the Knights are reportedly looking at other options, including younger players like James Schiller and Fletcher Hunt, who are vying for center positions.
The situation is further complicated by the impending departures of other key players from the Knights, including prop Leo Thompson, who is set to join the Bulldogs in 2026, and second-rower Kai Pearce-Paul, who has recently signed with the Wests Tigers.
As Gagai's future hangs in the balance, his steady performance and experience may lead him to new opportunities outside Newcastle.