Campbell to remain a Titan in latest blow to Bears
Scott Bailey |
Gold Coast have landed another blow on Perth with Jayden Campbell to knock back a big-money deal from the Bears to stay with the Titans.
Campbell told Titans officials on Friday he intended to stay on the Gold Coast, and is expected to take up a five-year extension that could make him a one-club player.
AAP understands Campbell stood to earn significantly more money as the Bears’ inaugural halfback, after being offered a deal in vicinity of $6 million over five years.
But the 25-year-old has opted not to leave the club where his father Preston is a favourite and foundation player.
Titans forward Beau Fermor opted to stay with Gold Coast earlier this week, while the likes of Herbie Farnworth and Josh Addo-Carr have been taken off the market.
The Bears have also shown an interest in Titans skipper Tino Fa’asuamaleaui, while South Sydney forward Keaon Koloamatangi is understood to be a target.
Meanwhile Campbell’s decision comes as another big win for new Titans coach Josh Hannay, who has now had his most successful week in the job.
Hannay almost has a blank canvas to work with such is the fluidity of his roster, with David Fifita headlining a long list of exits from the club.
Fermor on Friday said conversations with Hannay in recent months had convinced him to remain at the Titans.
“Having discussions with Josh over the off season and seeing the direction he wants to head the club in was something I could really get on board with,” Fermor said.
“There has been a lot of good change around the joint over the off-season that probably isn’t seen in the public eye but we can all see it here.”
Fermor has previously worked with Hannay in his role as an assistant in Queensland State of Origin camp.
“I really like where he thinks my game can go personally and where he can take our team as well,” he said.
Hannay’s next roster challenge will be convincing Fa’asuamaleaui to stay, with the Australian Test prop signed until 2033 but with an option to leave next year.
The front-rower has told AAP his preference is to remain a Titan, but he wants to see that he can achieve success at the club before committing.
AAP
