LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Newcastle Knights are facing a worrying situation with their star player Kalyn Ponga as they reportedly secure a huge $13 million deal with Eels five-eighth Dylan Brown.
The 10-year deal has raised concerns about the long-term future of Ponga with rumors swirling about his potential move to the Roosters.
Former NRL greats such as Bryan Fletcher and Mat Rogers have expressed their apprehension about the impact of Brown's signing on Ponga's future at the Knights.
Fletcher has previously hinted at uncertainty surrounding Ponga's future at the club, especially with other teams having significant funds available within the salary cap.
Ponga has been linked with a potential move to rugby union, but his desire to win an NRL premiership with the Knights has been noted.
The arrival of Brown could potentially be a tactic by the Knights to convince Ponga to stay, as bringing in a proven playmaker may strengthen their chances of retaining the talented fullback.
However, the news of Brown's signing has raised questions about the Knights' financial capabilities in retaining both Ponga and Brown within the salary cap.
Fletcher expressed his surprise and disbelief at the deal, questioning how the Knights could afford such a massive contract with Ponga already on their roster.
"How are they affording this, how are the Knights affording this with Kalyn? That is nearly $3 million out of the cap," Fletcher voiced on SEN Radio.
The uncertainty surrounding Ponga's future amidst the blockbuster deal with Brown has left many speculating on the direction the Knights will take.
With Brown's signing potentially influencing Ponga's decision to stay or leave, the Knights find themselves at a crucial juncture in securing the future of their star player amid growing competition and financial constraints within the NRL.