Roosters ‘concerned’ as Broncos ‘definitely’ look for $1 million Walker to replace Reynolds.
The Brisbane Broncos are reportedly considering making a significant move for Roosters halfback Sam Walker, who becomes a free agency on November 1.
The Roosters want to avoid losing Walker to the open market and are attempting to re-sign the 22-year-old playmaker, but have not yet tied him down.
Walker’s father, Ben, and uncles, Shane and Chris, all played for the Broncos, which Sam grew up watching.
Walker was with the Broncos as a teenager, but the club prioritized other young playmakers in their system, therefore he was finally released to the Roosters.
Brisbane’s veteran halfback Adam Reynolds will retire at the end of the next season, when Walker is currently under contract with the Chooks.
The young gun is seen as Queensland’s next State of Origin halfback, and his worth is rising each week following a career-best season.
Walker is among the NRL leaders in try assists (18, tied-3rd) and points scored (130, tied-4th), and has helped the Roosters climb into the top four.
There have been reports that Walker may make more over $1 million per season on his next contract, and the Roosters must decide how far they are willing to go to keep him.
“Sam Walker…” There are a few whispers that because he hasn’t resigned yet, he may leave on November 1, and there’s some concern that he could move to the open market,” Braith Anasta told NRL 360.
Journalist James Hooper stated that he has “absolutely” heard the Broncos are interested in signing Walker as Reynolds’ replacement.
“He’s such an exciting young player to do what he’s doing at 22 years of age as a halfback,” Hooper told ESPN.
“Clearly, he’s going to be a sought-after player; the Roosters seldom make mistakes when it comes to recruitment and retention, and in this case, it’s Sam.
“I believe they will have to try to strike the appropriate price since Adam Reynolds was brought to the Brisbane Broncos to help them win a premiership; he will be there next year, but what happens after that is unknown.
“Sam is from Queensland, he’s an Ipswich kid, I’m sure that the Brisbane Broncos would be heavily, heavily looking (at him).”I’d be surprised if his name hadn’t been spoken within the walls of the Brisbane Broncos.”
Gorden Tallis, a Broncos legend, then questioned the panel if Walker was still off the Roosters after being dropped last season.
“He went to NSW Cup then he got a little busted up and was out for an extended period, more than he and the Roosters would have liked,” Hooper
Leave a Reply