Andrew Johns believes the Newcastle Knights will make a serious play for Melbourne Storm’s Jonah Pezet, with the 22-year-old now free to explore his options following Jahrome Hughes’ contract extension.
With Pezet’s pathway to the Storm No.7 jersey now effectively blocked, speculation is mounting that the rising playmaker could fetch up to $900,000 a season if he chooses to move, and Johns says the Knights should be first in line.
MORE: Reynolds joins select club after Rabbitohs romp
“The Knights are desperate for a halfback, so I’m sure they’ll be interested in talking to Jonah,” the Immortal said on Wide World of Sports’ Immortal Behaviour. “There’s not many halfbacks around, so he could pick his club really.”
Pezet’s patience running out as Dragons, Knights circle
Pezet had previously turned down an offer from Newcastle to stay in Melbourne, but a release clause linked to Hughes’ future has now been triggered. With Jackson Hastings on his way out of the Knights and no long-term successor locked in, the timing may suit both parties.
“… he’s done his apprenticeship, he’s been in the lower grades and had a couple of knee injuries that have kept him out, but he’s 22 now, so he’s ready to go. He can’t wait in reserve grade for another two or three years,” Johns added.
MORE: Is NRL enforcer’s discipline jeopardising Dolphins finals chances?
The Dragons have also emerged as contenders, though their crowded halves stocks and recent recruitment shake-up may complicate matters. Pezet’s agent, Braith Anasta, also manages Lachlan Ilias, currently out of favour at the Dragons and blocked by Kyle Flanagan.
Still, Johns warned that securing a playmaker of Pezet’s calibre won’t come cheap.
“Jonah on the market, at this stage, you’re paying for potential. He’s probably $500,000 or $600k. If he’s going to go to Newcastle or St George Illawarra, you’re paying $800k or $900k, which then slants your salary cap a little bit,” he said.