LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
The Rugby League Players Association (RLPA) has issued a warning to NRL clubs regarding the use of players as bargaining tools amid the ongoing contract stalemate involving Zac Lomax.
Currently, Lomax is in a difficult position after being granted an early release from the last three years of his deal with the Parramatta Eels. However, this release comes with a condition: he cannot join another NRL club without approval from the Eels.
This condition has become a significant point of contention, as the Eels are hesitant to allow Lomax to move unless there is an "appropriate exchange of value," especially with strong interest from the Melbourne Storm.
Reports suggest that the Eels are looking at players like Xavier Coates, Stefano Utoikamanu, or Jack Howarth as possible trade options. However, Melbourne appears unwilling to consider that proposition.
RLPA's chief executive, Clint Newton, emphasized the organization's opposition to any situation that pressures players into unwelcome transfers. "We certainly wouldn't be supportive of any horse-trading situation where it's conditional on player X or player Y going to Parramatta," Newton stated to the Sydney Morning Herald. "That's not something we would encourage or support."