Cronulla Sharks to offer Bronson Xerri five-year contract extension

Cronulla are preparing to offer one of their most exciting young star a massive contract extension in a bid to kill off a reported Roosters plan to swoop on him.

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The Sharks are preparing to offer Bronson Xerri a five-year contract extension in a move that could kill off the Roosters’ plan to make him their next Latrell Mitchell.

With Xerri earmarked by the Roosters as their long-term replacement for Mitchell, the Sharks are manoeuvring to blow up the Bondi-based club’s bid with a deal that would lock down the NRL’s next big thing until 2026.

The Roosters, fresh from releasing Mitchell from the final year of his deal, have renewed their interest in Xerri and will go all out to snare the Shark as soon as next year.

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Cronulla are moving fast to re-sign their most exciting young player. Picture. Phil Hillyard

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With Brett Morris, Ryan Hall and Mitchell Aubusson all off-contract at the end of the year, the Roosters are cashed-up and on the hunt for a marquee outside back.

Cronulla have been angered by the Roosters’ reported interest in Xerri with the born-and-bred Shark contracted until the end of 2021.

Under NRL rules, rival clubs are not allowed to talk or approach Xerri until November 1.

Speculation of Xerri’s future at the Sharks mounted after this picture with Sydney Rooster Kyle Flanagan was posted on social media.

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The Sharks will attempt to lock down Xerri well before the anti-tampering deadline and will take action against any club that entices the 19-year-old to break his contract.

Xerri is close to Roosters recruit Kyle Flanagan but a five-year, multimillion-dollar extension offer might be enough to keep the Aquinas Colts junior at Cronulla.

Xerri will partner returning Shark Jesse Ramien in a new-look centres combination this year.

Originally published as Cronulla Sharks to offer Bronson Xerri five-year contract extension