Super League side would demand fee for star player

Yesterday, it was reported on NRL 360 on Fox League that Wests Tigers were interested in offering Super League star Mitchell Pearce a huge $1.5 million contract.

Now Catalans Dragons coach Steve McNamara has responded to the rumour.

“It’s news to me, but it doesn’t surprise me either,” McNamara said to The Age.

“In the past I know it had been floated about Mitch joining the Tigers because of the link through his father [Balmain legend Wayne].

“And he’s said in the past he would never say never about returning to the NRL.

“He has a really smart football brain. He’s done it from a really young age, he’s been in some successful teams — teams that have been to grand finals and played in State of Origin — so he has plenty of experience.”

McNamara also confirmed to the the publication that if the Dragons were to let Pearce go they would want a fee for his services.

He went on to add: “Mitch is as clear-minded as I’ve seen him. Coming to the south of France has been really good for him. He’s just looking forward to having a really good season with us this year.

“I’m sure NRL clubs are looking at a lot of players over here, but it’s no surprise they’d be looking at Mitch. I’m glad we’ve got him this year.

“We’ve got the option for him next year, but we’ll have those conversations in due course.

“He’s still a loveable and likeable character. He picked up a calf injury just before the start of the season, but other than that, he’s as fit as he’s been, and as enthusiastic as he’s ever been about playing the game as well.”