An NRL club has reportedly withdrawn from the race to sign English international and Wests Tigers star John Bateman, whose future remains uncertain.
Bateman, who joined the Tigers at the start of the 2023 season, has struggled with inconsistent form and has underperformed on both offense and defense.
Additionally, reports have surfaced of tension between Bateman and head coach Benji Marshall, leading to his late-season departure to play under Sam Burgess at the Warrington Wolves.
Despite being contracted with the Tigers for two more years on approximately $650,000 per season, it appears unlikely he will stay. The Tigers may even cover up to $300,000 per season to offload him.
Although the Manly Sea Eagles showed interest about a month ago, they are now expected to end their pursuit. However, two other NRL teams have reportedly shown early interest in Bateman, according to The Daily Telegraph.
Neither the St George Illawarra Dragons nor the South Sydney Rabbitohs are among the teams showing interest in John Bateman.
Bateman is part of a group of players the Tigers are reportedly keen to offload ahead of 2025, which includes Jayden Sullivan, Brent Naden, and Charlie Staines. Additionally, the club is believed to be open to facilitating a move for David Klemmer.
The 31-year-old has had an extensive career, playing 285 top-flight games across Australia and England. This includes 34 appearances for the Canberra Raiders and 32 for the Wests Tigers.
In England, Bateman has represented the Bradford Bulls, Wigan Warriors (in two separate stints), and the Warrington Wolves.
Leave a Reply