NRL News: Joseph Sua’ali’i hits back at rugby union to sign new deal with Sydney Roosters

Sua’ali’i turned down multimillion-dollar opportunities from Rugby Union to sign until the end of the 2024 season – right when Tedesco is out of the contract.

This creates an awkward situation for the Roosters.

At 19, Sua’ali’i is the obvious long-term option.

Tedesco is now 30 and has spoken of wanting a contract extension beyond 2024.

But how do the Roosters afford both, especially with Joey Manu, another multimillionaire player.

News Corp can reveal that Sua’ali’i briefed Roosters boss Nick Politis and coach Trent Robinson on his decision to stay ahead of Sunday’s game against the Dolphins at Suncorp Stadium.

It’s the positive story the Roosters desperately needed after Sunday’s massive loss, but one that will spark a debate over who will play in the number one jersey long-term.

Sua’ali’i has been the game’s most exciting young player since the likes of Brad Fittler, Laurie Daley and Greg Inglis first appeared on the scene.

He is keen to play in center this year but as a full-back on the stretch.

It’s a huge coup, not just for the Roosters, but for the NRL that he stays.

While he has signed until the end of 2024, the Roosters hope to tie him to a long-term contract over the next 18 months.

Sua’ali’i has been wallaby trainer Eddie Jones’ #1 target for months.

He could have made well over $1 million a year to make the switch.

Instead, he’s staying at the Roosters for around the $750,000 mark.

Sua’ali’i has often spoken about his relationship with Politis and Robinson as a reason he wanted to stay.

However, the Rah Rahs refuse to give up on the former schoolboy rugby prodigy.

The Wallabies will host the British Lions in 2025 and host the 2027 World Cup here.

Originally published as NRL News: Joseph Sua’ali’i hits back at rugby union to sign new contract with Sydney Roosters