According to coach Kevin Walters, the Brisbane club were “surprised” by Payne Haas’ request for an immediate release from the remaining two and a half seasons of his contract.
Negotiations for the Haas-Broncos deal broke down on Wednesday night, after which the management of the 22-year-old sent an email to the club requesting immediate release.
Haas is hired in Brisbane until the end of the 2024 season, a deal worth $ 750,000 in 2022, which will rise to $ 800,000 in 2023 and $ 850,000 in 2024.
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One of the best forwards in the game, Haas reports, believes he is worth more than that. He is believed to have asked for $ 1 million for 2023 and 2024, and $ 1.2 million for 2025.
“His management has asked for his release. They made us an offer for Payne to stay, and we turned down that offer,” Walters told Brisbane Radio Nova.
“We understand that Payne has been a great player for us and we want to take care of him financially, but we have not been able to reach an agreement.
“Contracts are about negotiation, and we’re happy to negotiate.”
Brisbane Broncos Payne Haas props. (Images by Chloe Davis / NRL)
While the Walters and Broncos may be happy to negotiate, Haas doesn’t seem so interested.
“They sent an email to (football coach) Ben Ikin saying that if that’s not the case, then Payne wants an immediate release, which really surprised us,” Walters said.
“We are trying to work with your management to keep Payne in Red Hill.
“That’s the result we both want. I’m sure we can come to an agreement.”
Walters noted that Haas had been in the Brisbane system for nearly a decade and stated that the drama surrounding the striker would not worry his teammates.
“We’ve been by his side in the good and bad times. It’s a two-way street. He’s always been a Bronco and we want him to stay,” he said.
Broncos coach Kevin Walters (Getty)
“The players treat the rugby league like a business, they understand that at different times the players will move forward.
“This is the world they live in.”
Earlier this week, the Sydney Morning Herald reported that Haas, who has taken legal action against Chris Orr and Pacific Sports Management, is now facing a counter-claim in the NSW Supreme Court from his former manager, who is asking for more than $ 200,000.
That came after Haas allegedly refused to sign a new $ 5.75 million deal with the Orr-Broncos.
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