Eel star Isaiah Papali’i wants to turn back his $ 1.9 million deal to join the Wests Tigers next season.
Papali’i has signed a three-year deal with the Tigers starting in 2023, but put pen to pen when Michael Maguire was the coach.
Maguire was sacked last month and the club have yet to give any indication as to who will replace him in the long run.
Play all matches of each round of the 2022 season of the NRL Telstra Premiership live and without advertising during the game in Kayo. Are we Kayo? Start your free trial now>
Papali’i is close to Maguire and met with the New Zealand coach at the test camp last week.
The 23-year-old was named second rower of the year Dally M 2021 last season after an NRL campaign.
Isaiah Papali’i could go back to the Tigers. GettyFont: FOX SPORTS
MORE NEWS NRL
“NOT FIXED”: an ugly dispute over the clash of RCG’s Origin Exile
WHISPERS: Tiger powerbrokers push to bring the golden boy home
TEAM TIPS: Lodge’s NRL return is approaching after NSW Cup season
“BACKFIRED”: how the NRL forced the Dolphins ’hand to name Bennett
Tim Sheens is proposed to take over as coach of the Tigers, but Papali’i tells his relatives that he wants to stay at Parramatta, according to The Daily Telegraph.
Papali’i has not yet requested an official release, but the Eels are aware of the situation and have the salary cap to retain him.
The shipowner striker made his Warriors debut in 2017 before joining Parramatta last season.
Papali’i has played internationally in both Samoa and New Zealand.
Watch Benji’s talk with the biggest stars of the game at Kayo Freebies live on Mondays at 7:30 pm and on demand. Join Kayo Freebies now, no credit card required