Newcastle Knights coach Adam O’Brien has spoken out about Mitchell Pearce’s suggested move to the Catalans Dragons.
Catalans’ move for Pearce is expected to be formally announced soon, but O’Brien has revealed that he – nor anyone at the Knights – has spoken to the veteran halfback about a release from his contract which ends next year.
However, Pearce already looks to have his heart set on a move to the south of France, with the halfback telling those close to him that he is now ready to take up what will be a lucrative three-year offer.
Though Newcastle will likely to grant the release for Pearce to make the move, O’Brien is adamant that he and the club have been left in the dark regarding a potential move.
“All I can say is I nor anyone at the club have heard from Mitchell or his management,” O’Brien said.
“He is currently scheduled to start training on the 24th of November and until I’m told otherwise, I have started planning for 2022 with Mitch as our halfback.”
Asked if he was disappointed that Pearce had not contacted him personally to tell him of his plans, O’Brien said: “Well, I haven’t got anything to be disappointed about yet.
“I will cross that bridge when I come to it but I only live two streets away from him and I haven’t heard anything.”
The Catalans offer for Pearce is a three-year $1.5 million deal which will take him through until the age of 35.
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