LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
An NRL club has denied reports linking them to Newcastle Knights' fullback and 2023 Dally M winner Kalyn Ponga, despite previous speculation that they were interested in acquiring him.
Ponga, who joined the Knights in 2018 from the North Queensland Cowboys, has established himself as a standout player within the club, winning the prestigious Dally M Medal in 2023 and representing the QLD Maroons in multiple matches.
Despite being one of the highest-paid players in the NRL with a contract reportedly worth $1.4 million per season until 2027, rumors have persisted suggesting that he may leave Newcastle before his current deal expires.
The Warriors were recently rumored to be making a play for Ponga, but The New Zealand Herald has since clarified that there have been no formal or informal discussions with the player or his management.
Speculation regarding Ponga's future has also included links to the Sydney Roosters and a potential move to rugby union.
These rumors have fueled ongoing uncertainty about his long-term commitment to the Knights.
Despite the persistent speculation, it seems that concrete plans to secure Ponga's services have yet to materialize, leaving his future in the NRL uncertain.
The back-and-forth surrounding Ponga's potential moves reflects the intense interest in his talents and the impact he could have on any team he chooses to join.
The recurrent rumors surrounding Ponga's future highlight the volatile nature of player contracts and team rosters in professional sports.
Despite his success with the Knights and his significant salary, the possibility of him leaving Newcastle has remained a topic of discussion for over a year.
Until a formal agreement is reached with another club, the uncertainty surrounding Ponga's future will likely persist, keeping fans and pundits speculating about where he may end up next.