A Super League club has its eye on Mitchell Pearce and have even tabled a huge offer, however the Knights aren’t going to let the veteran halfback go that easy.
French Super League club, Catalans Dragons, have identified their replacement for James Maloney and it’s Knights halfback Mitchell Pearce.
According to a News Corp report, Catalans are set to table a three-year deal to the 32-year-old worth $1.8 million.
Catalans signed Maloney for the 2020 and 2021 Super League seasons on a $600,000 salary. With Maloney officially retiring from professional footy, this year’s grand finalists are on the hunt for a replacement.
Pearce is signed to Newcastle until the end of next season after the club gave him a one-year extension him in March.
News Corp reports Pearce is yet to discuss the offer with the Knights, however the club is aware of Catalans’ interest in their star No.7 after some “robust conversations.”
However Newcastle won’t release him unless they can secure an adequate replacement.
The plan is to shift superstar fullback Kalyn Ponga to the halves but that move isn’t expected to happen until 2023.
Pearce has played over 300 NRL games and has represented New South Wales, however given his age, it’s unlikely he’ll be offered a new deal in Australia beyond his current one.
Source: Fox Sports