Storm lock down flyer until 2027, but door open for PNG
Scott Bailey |
Melbourne have taken Xavier Coates off the market for 2027, but the door remains open for Papua New Guinea to try to lure the flyer home for their entry to the NRL.
The Storm confirmed on Saturday night that Coates had signed a new one-year extension for 2027, with the winger already contracted for next season.
That means the Queensland State of Origin star cannot become a priority target for Perth when they hit the market to build their inaugural 2027 roster in November.
Coates would likely have become a target for the Bears, given there are only a limited number of big names available to build their 30-man player group around.
“I’ve loved every minute of my time in Melbourne,” Coates said in a statement.
“The club has helped me grow not only as a player but as a person.
“We’ve got a great group of players and coaches, and I want to be part of bringing more success to Storm.”
Intriguingly, Coates’s short-term extension means he remains unsigned for when PNG enter the competition in 2028.
Coates was born in Port Moresby, and made his international debut for the Kumuls in 2019 when he was a rookie at Brisbane.
The new club already look likely to have a chance to sign Alex Johnston, whose latest contract with South Sydney allows him to negotiate with PNG early.
Either one of Coates or Johnston would give the PNG team a marquee star, along with a genuine link to the country.
Since moving to Melbourne in 2022, Coates has become one of the most potent players in the NRL, with 61 tries in 73 games at the Storm.
Once not so reliable with his hands, the 24-year-old has turned into one of the best aerial threats in the game alongside the Sydney Roosters’ Daniel Tupou.
He also remains one of the quickest players in the NRL, and will still only be 26 when the new deal ends.
“Xavier has been an outstanding addition to Storm since arriving three years ago,” Melbourne’s football boss Frank Ponissi said.
“His professionalism, work ethic, and commitment to the club make him the type of player we want in purple.
“He’s become an important leader in our group, and we’re excited to see what he can achieve over the next few seasons.”
AAP
