The Storm have reportedly made a final call on the future of hulking enforcer Nelson Asofa-Solomona, releasing the prop from the final two years of his contract.
According to Code Sports, Asofa-Solomona was earning a reported $850,000 per-season and his departure opens up a significant portion of salary cap space to utilise elsewhere.
Storm powerbrokers were reportedly left frustrated after the middle forward earned a suspension which rendered him unavailable to feature in the grand final against the Broncos.
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It was the second time in as many years Asofa-Solomona was suspended for the most crucial game of the season, while injuries have also kept him sidelined.
Asofa-Solomona is now on the lookout for a new club, having previously been linked to a rugby union switch through R360 of Japanese franchises.
Regardless, the front rower will get a chance to showcase his skills to NRL clubs when he turns out for New Zealand in the upcoming Pacific Championships.
“I have been committed to the Storm since signing as a junior in 2011,” he said to News Corp.
“With over 10 years now at the top-level and given all I have achieved with the club, I have chosen to step away and consider other opportunities and new challenges.
“I’ve loved my time in Melbourne. I’m very thankful to all the players, coaches, and staff that I had the privilege to work alongside during my time at such a prestigious club.
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“I also want to give a special thank you to the greater Storm family and fans for all their love and support over the last decade”.
Meanwhile, chairman Matt Tripp also added: “While we’re disappointed to lose a player of his calibre and experience, we fully respect his decision to explore new opportunities.”
Asofa-Solomona has reportedly previously been offered to the Warriors, and his salary could be utilised in the potential re-signing of fellow front rower Tui Kamikamica.
He is without a contract for the 2026 season, previously being offered a minimum-wage deal to remain due to salary cap constraints.