Super League star Tyler Dupree has made a transfer request to the Salford Red Devils.
Salford’s Director of Rugby and Operations, Ian Blease has clarified the club’s position regarding Dupree:
“I can confirm the club have received a transfer request from the agent of Tyler Dupree today. We have strongly refused the request, with the player still a big part of our plans going forward.
“As a club, we are committed to retaining our players and after a recent extension, Tyler is contracted until the end of 2025.”
Last week the club confirmed they have rejected a transfer for an unnamed but likely key player showing the impact of the money they have raised as in the past they have had to accept such fees to keep the club afloat.
However, Managing Director Paul King has warned that fans have to continue to back the club to stop the sale of key players.
The club said: “Salford Red Devils can also confirm that the club has rejected an offer for an unnamed player this week.”
King added:
“A reflection of the progress we have made as a club in recent years is our hugely talented squad who are attracting offers from other clubs across the world, and who would potentially command significant transfer fees.”
It has been reported that Hull KR made a six figure offer for Dupree last week.
Some Salford fans have questioned what has changed from Dupree after signing a new deal.
He said after signing a new deal:
“I’m buzzing, I feel like I owe the club a lot as they took a chance on me and helped me fulfil the dream of playing in Super League so I feel like signing anew deal is the best way to repay them.
“It’s been a whirlwind really, I can’t say there’s a week I’ve not enjoyed. It’s been good to be around a good professional group of lads so it’s just fuel in the fire to develop more.”
However, an England international, Dupree is clearly ambitious and the Robins are a side on the up and look like over the next few years could have a serious chance of winning the Grand Final.
You can’t blame Dupree for chasing a chance like this but it is not what Salford need.