LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
The Gold Coast Titans are approaching a pivotal moment as they navigate their contract negotiations with Tino Fa'asuamaleaui. The player has declared his intention to test the open market starting November 1, presenting the club with a crucial dilemma.
Should they provide a third significant contract upgrade to retain him, or is it time to set firm boundaries?
Fa'asuamaleaui has previously leveraged his long-term contract's clauses to reopen discussions, underscoring his strong negotiating position. However, this situation raises a fundamental question: how do loyalty and leadership measures weigh against the harsh realities of performance?
Background to the saga
This isn't the first instance of Fa'asuamaleaui being embroiled in contract discussions. Earlier in 2023, businessman Arthur Laundy made waves with a reported offer for Tino to acquire shares in one of his pubs, aiming to lure him to the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs.
This proposal was never an official club offer and was swiftly dismissed. Nonetheless, it highlighted the high demand for the prop forward in the NRL. In response, the Titans upgraded his contract, securing a decade-long deal valued at approximately $1.2 million yearly. The contract's structure includes player options, allowing Tino to explore market opportunities from 2027, which positions the club under ongoing pressure to renegotiate.
Fa'asuamaleaui has expressed his respect for the new Titans coach, Josh Hannay, with whom he has previously collaborated in the Queensland Origin setup. He maintains a public affection for the club, yet the flexibility embedded in his contract serves a purpose. It allows him to secure his family's future while keeping options open for potential success elsewhere if necessary.