LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
The Melbourne Storm are facing a classic sporting dilemma with their star player, Ryan Papenhuyzen.
The fullback, who is worth a whopping $1.1 million, is set to test the open market as the deadline looms for a contract renewal.
According to Rugby League journalist Danny Weidler, the Storm are keen to keep Papenhuyzen on their team but are aware that he may be lured away by the promise of a more lucrative deal elsewhere.
Sources suggest that Papenhuyzen's current contract, including endorsements, is valued at around $1.1 million until 2025.
The Storm are hoping to negotiate a new deal with Papenhuyzen, offering him $750,000 plus an additional $200,000 in endorsements.
However, this would still result in a pay cut for the talented fullback.
In the high-stakes world of professional sports, players often have to make tough decisions about their future.
With the November 1 deadline fast approaching, all eyes will be on Papenhuyzen as he navigates the twists and turns of the open market in search of the best deal for himself.