With only 12 players signed for 2028, the Sydney Roosters now face added work in filling their roster after ending contract talks with Sam Walker.
On Monday, the club withdrew its offer after the deadline for Walker to sign ahead of November 1 passed.
Walker had sought more money after the deal was nearly agreed, and Roosters boss Nick Politis took the offer off the table.
Walker is with the Australian Kangaroos at the Rugby League World Cup, while the Roosters must now seek another halfback.
Politis told News Corp the club would not reopen discussions. "We are moving on," he said.
Asked if he was happy with the outcome, Politis replied, "Am I happy? Of course not."
"The plan was to keep him at the Roosters for life. It's sad, but we gave Sam the best offer," Politis said.
He said the club would have more money to spend, but regretted failing to retain Walker.
"It's unfortunate that we couldn't reach an agreement," Politis said.
"Sam is a great kid and a great person, but for some reason it hasn't worked out. I want to wish him all the best going into the future."