LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
The Wests Tigers' interim CEO, Shaun Mielekamp, has indicated that he expects Jahream Bula to re-sign with the struggling joint-venture club before the commencement of the 2026 NRL season.
Bula's contract situation has garnered significant attention lately, as the star fullback possesses a player option extending to 2027. However, there is uncertainty regarding whether he will exercise that option. Reports suggest that a new deal with the Tigers is on the horizon, despite the club's ongoing off-field challenges and Bula being able to negotiate with rival teams since November 1.
During an appearance on SEN Radio, Mielekamp acknowledged the complexities surrounding Bula's contract but emphasized that all stakeholders are keen for him to remain with the club. He expressed optimism that an agreement would be reached before the season begins.
"I do think your words are wise there around it being a unique situation," Mielekamp stated on SEN 1170 Breakfast.
"But we do have a player who wants to stay. We've got a club who wants him to stay. We've got a coach who wants him to stay. So, you start there and you go, 'right, things are gonna be okay'."
Mielekamp concluded by highlighting the collaborative effort needed to finalize the deal, saying, "It's really just a matter of just working really closely with his agent and getting through what is the best model to make sure that we unlock this moving forward."