Deal done: Manly superstar backs himself on new deal

Scott Bailey | October 28, 2025

Tom Trbojevic has backed himself to return to his sparkling best, taking up a one-year extension with Manly that will keep him at the club until the end of 2027.

Trbojevic ended months of speculation around his future on Tuesday, signing on for one extra season worth close to $900,000.

The agreement marks a significant pay cut for the 29-year-old, whose current salary was back ended and rises to close to $1.3 million next season.

Manly and Trbojevic had initially been discussing a two-year extension, before the fullback returned from an overseas holiday and moved to a one-year deal.

In doing so, the No.1 has given himself a chance to reclaim his best form next year after a full pre-season, when he will sit down and again re-negotiate with the Sea Eagles.

There is every chance player wages could also go up in 2028, with a new TV rights deal expected to bring in more money for the game.

When fully fit, Trbojevic remains one of the most influential players in the NRL.

While Trbojevic has not managed more than 20 games in a season since the start of 2019, he has scored 82 tries and set up in 95 in the 93 games he has played in that time.

“I’m so pleased to be staying at Manly for at least another two seasons,” Trbojevic said.

“This club is such a big part of my life and always will be.

“I think the future looks bright here at Manly and it’s great to have my new contract put to bed.”

The 2021 Dally M Medal winner’s signature will come as a massive relief to the Sea Eagles, who already had longest-serving player Daly Cherry-Evans leave this year.

While Trbojevic has ruled out ever playing against Manly, the NSW State of Origin star had attracted interest from English Super League clubs as negotiations stalled.

Manly have toyed with playing Lehi Hopoate in the No.1 jersey and Trbojevic at centre, but abandoned that move after five games this season.

What position Trbojevic plays will naturally be tied to any future salary negotiations, with the centre role likely to command less money than fullback.

“Tom is so well respected by his teammates and fans alike, so it’s wonderful he’s extended his stay here at Manly,” Manly CEO Tony Mestrov said.

“He is a natural leader who oozes Manly DNA, and he’s one of the best players our game has seen.”

Manly had initially also opened talks with Jake Trbojevic, but both parties will now wait to see how he returns from concussions next year before continuing talks.

The Sea Eagles also face a battle to keep their backline together, with the versatile Reuben Garrick off contract at the end of next year.

Fellow centre Tolu Koula is contracted until 2027, but has an option to leave early.

He would be a natural target for R360 after playing rugby union growing up, but is unlikely to leave the NRL.

Davvy Moale is already signed from South Sydney to boost Manly’s pack in 2027, but there remains a chance he could arrive next year.

For that to happen Manly would likely need to find a new home for Nathan Brown to free up salary-cap space. 

If Moale does arrive, it would ensure Souths have the space to welcome David Fifita for 2026.