chadiwrx
Kennel Addict
- Joined
- May 21, 2005
- Messages
- 5,419
- Reaction score
- 421
WITH Daly Cherry-Evans now safely secured until the end of 2015, Manly officials are more confident than ever of locking up Kieran Foran for the same term.
Just a week after his manager publicly threatened to pursue a release, Cherry-Evans yesterday inked a new $2 million four-season package that provides an immediate boost to his paltry salary - and Manly's chances of keeping Foran.
Although contracted until the end of 2014, Foran is a free agent thanks to Des Hasler's dramatic departure triggering a get-out clause last October.
With Hasler's new club - the Bulldogs - eagerly pursuing him, the Kiwi superstar has been keeping a close eye on the fate of his halves partner over the past three months.
Manly insiders even said Foran was making inquiries as Cherry-Evans put pen to paper at Brookvale yesterday afternoon, and the pair are also striking-up a close friendship to match their awesome on-field combination.
According to guests at teammate Anthony Watmough's engagement party a fortnight ago, both players and their girlfriends spent much of the night together. Manly's vow to do everything possible to keep their premiership-winning side together was also central to Cherry-Evans' commitment yesterday.
"Manly gave me my start in the NRL and I love it here," he said. "I get the opportunity to play with so many committed, talented players and it's great to know I'll be here for years to come."
Foran has been offered a handsome one-year extension to have the get-out clause annulled, but the attraction of re-uniting with Hasler could still drive the 21-year-old to Belmore next year.
Unable to match Canterbury's web of wealthy backers, Manly are also behind when it comes to finding third party deals that would further boost Foran's salary.
Foran, however, has told teammates and coaching staff that he'd prefer to stay if Manly can get close to Canterbury's offer. The Sea Eagles' chances will further improve should they re-sign fullback Brett Stewart, who appears to be no longer in demand from St George Illawarra.
The Dragons now have their sights firmly set on more affordable Brisbane speedster Gerald Beale as they stash cash for an all-out assault on Cooper Cronk.
Manly CEO David Perry last night reiterated his desire to keep the NRL's best halves pairing together.
"They both complement each other's game and they are faces of the northern beaches," Perry said.
"Obviously Daly is very keen on Keiran staying, and we hope that signing Daly would give Keiran some relief."
Source
