LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Rugby league legend Scott Sattler has weighed in on the Ryan Papenhuyzen saga, suggesting that the Melbourne Storm should let go of the talented fullback in order to build for the future.
Sattler believes that freeing up Papenhuyzen's salary would allow the club to invest in other areas and navigate the transition period they are entering under coach Craig Bellamy.
Speaking on SEN 1170s 'The Run Home', Sattler stated, "The way rugby league is now when you have a player that is on seven figures, it has the ability to free up a lot of money.
Because the Melbourne Storm are about to go into a really interesting phase in their history under Craig Bellamy.
They've always been a top-four side and were so again this year but they're moving into an era where you're not quite sure where they're going to be."
The speculation surrounding Papenhuyzen's future comes after reports emerged that a third party acting on behalf of the Storm had approached a rival NRL club to gauge their interest in the 25-year-old.
Papenhuyzen, who is a fan favorite and has a contract with the Storm until 2025, has struggled with injuries in recent years, leading to extended periods on the sidelines.
This potential move away for Papenhuyzen coincides with the rise of Storm youngster Sualauvi Faalogo, who impressed during the recent Pacific Championship Test series and is set for a significant contract upgrade.
The Storm management is reportedly already working on doubling Faalogo's pay and promoting him to the club's top 30 for the next season.
With the Storm looking to secure their future and make strategic moves in the salary cap space, the possibility of Papenhuyzen leaving the club is becoming more plausible.
As the team enters this transitional phase, it remains to be seen how they will navigate the uncertain future and whether they will make the tough decision to part ways with their talented fullback.