Sydney Roosters halfback Sam Walker is on the brink of a lucrative contract that could make him one of the highest-paid players in the NRL.
With his current contract expiring at the end of 2027, the Roosters have until November 1 this year to secure Walker's services before he can explore options in the open market.
No matter which path he takes, Walker is in line for a significant payday. The Daily Telegraph has reported that he is pursuing long-term stability, aiming for a contract of around five years at $1.2 million per season.
As he approaches a potential spot in Origin history, the spotlight is firmly on Walker, especially regarding his quest to help the Queensland Maroons win the Origin shield in his rookie series.
With the NRL's new TV agreement nearing completion, projected to surpass $5 billion, Walker's market value could exceed his current demands by the time the deal activates in 2028.
Walker's representative, Clinton Schifcofske, relayed to the Daily Telegraph that his client is eyeing a long-term deal starting in 2028, with possibilities that it may be outside of Bondi.
Numerous factors are at play; Walker's worth could surge if he leads Queensland to an Origin series triumph and is also a strong contender for the Wally Lewis Medal for series MVP.
"We've discussed things and Sam would like a long-term deal, but we have to make sure it's the right deal as well," Schifcofske stated in the report.