St George Illawarra Dragons star Jack Bird in major future twist after NRL and Super League clubs increase interest
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - MAY 28: Jack Bird of the Dragons disappointed during the round twelve NRL match between the Wests Tigers and St George Illawarra Dragons at Bankwest Stadium on May 28, 2021 in Sydney, Australia. Photo by Speed Media/Icon Sportswire RUGBY: MAY 28 NRL Rd 12 - Wests Tigers v Dragons Icon2105280072
The Dragons have reportedly tabled a $1.1 million two-year deal in their bid to retain Jack Bird.
St George are already content with losing the likes of Tariq Sims, but have been desperate to hold on to their major names.
But, one man who hasn’t yet signed a new deal – and who the club want to – is Jack Bird.
Unhappy at being asked to take a significant pay cut, Bird and his agent David Riolo have gone to the open market to see if any other clubs are willing to snap him up for 2023 and beyond.
“They made an offer before Christmas, we had a few meetings, but nothing’s happened,” Riolo told the Daily Telegraph.
“We’re not at each other but the talks have stalled. We’re on different pages at the moment.
“There’s a fair bit of interest from other clubs. I wouldn’t be saying he’s looking to leave at this stage but he’s got to look at his options.
“We’re now in the process of seeing what’s out there.”
However, St George have responded with a massive $550,000 offer per year for the next two seasons for Bird to sign on.
Because of Bird’s injury problems in the past, the Dragons aren’t willing to give him three years, with Parramatta also offering a two-year deal.