The Cronulla Sharks are preparing to contend with other teams this off-season for Teig Wilton's signing as the back-rower is likely to explore the market when November 1 arrives.
As one of the Sharks' most dependable forwards, Wilton is eager to seek out the best contract available.
His agent, Andrew Purcell, shared the reasoning behind Wilton's decision to evaluate his options before committing.
"Teig loves the club, and they want him to stay, but at 26 and after signing with the club early for his seven years there, it's time for him to think of his future and see what his market value is," Purcell stated to WWOS.
"There are plenty of clubs that need back-rowers, so we will see what happens."
With multiple Sharks players set to depart after the season, the club's ambitions for a premiership and to retain key players will make this recruitment period crucial.
Jesse Ramien and Sione Katoa are both heading to the North Queensland Cowboys on two-year contracts, while Cameron McInnes is moving to the Super League and Siosifa Talakai is joining the new Perth Bears roster for 2027.
Wilton has made 125 appearances for the Sharks, achieving a career-high in tries and matching his best season for offloads in 2026.
This second-rower has also recorded 6 line breaks in 19 games, just one shy of equaling his personal best from 2024.