LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
The NRL community is buzzing with excitement over the potential return of Tino Fa'asuamaleaui to the Melbourne Storm. This speculation gained traction after Brandon Smith mentioned he had heard "whispers" regarding the move on Wednesday. Notably, Tino's connection to the Gold Coast Titans has diminished, especially after his younger brother Iszac joined the Catalans Dragons in the UK Super League.
Tino is under contract with the Titans until 2033, but his deal includes several escape clauses. One such clause allows him to explore the open market starting November 1 of this year, potentially paving the way for an early exit from his contract by 2027.
The agent for the Queensland Origin star has indicated plans to explore the open market, though emphasized that Tino is currently content on the Gold Coast due to their supportive family environment. Both the Dragons and Bulldogs are reportedly preparing offers, but the real surprise came from Smith, who suggested that the Storm might be a contender.
Fa'asuamaleaui began his NRL career with the Melbourne Storm, where he played 27 matches from 2019 to 2020, contributing to the team's 2020 grand final win. He later joined the Titans in 2021, but his success on the Gold Coast has been limited.
Smith, who was with the Storm during Fa'asuamaleaui's tenure, maintains friendships within the club. During the 'Bye Round' podcast alongside James Graham, the current Rabbitohs player stated: "I heard a little whisper.. I heard something about Melbourne. Nelson's (Asofa-Solomona) contract's coming up. That's all I'm saying, and he is on big money."
Asofa-Solomona's contract extends until the end of 2027, with an annual value of $900,000. The Storm could also relieve some financial pressure if either Ryan Papenhuyzen or Cameron Munster opts to leave, especially since both players have recently been linked to the Perth Bears.
"For Tino and what he is dealing with at the Titans, he obviously doesn't like this situation," Graham noted in response to Smith's comments. "If he goes to Perth, you have to assume they are a work in progress. If he goes to the Dragons, they aren't screaming finals, although they are improving and they are achieving enough results."