NRL 2023: Matt Burton re-signs with Bulldogs, contract details revealed

One of the most in-demand NRL stars is off the market, signing a monster multi-year deal to remain at the Bulldogs. Contract details here.

The Canterbury Bulldogs have locked in arguably the most important piece in the club’s roster rebuild after securing superstar playmaker Matt Burton on a long-term deal.

The Bulldogs staved off interest from NRL rival clubs to re-sign Burton on a four-year extension, keeping the superstar playmaker in Belmore until the end of season 2027.

The 22-year old, who was off contract at then of 2023, came on to the player market on November 1, where it was tipped he could command north of $1 million-a-season on his new deal.

It’s believed Burton is set to earn $500,000 this season, with the Bulldogs tabling a four-year extension worth around $750,000.

Despite rivals circling the youngster, Burton said he was comfortable committing to the club in the future with rookie coach Cameron Ciraldo, also signed until the end of season 2027, at the helm.

Matt Burton (R) has committed his future to the Bulldogs. Picture: Matt King/Getty

“We’ve got the new coach in now and I’m really excited to work with him again,” Burton said.

“He’s a great coach and I’m looking forward to taking my game to the next level with his guidance.

“We’ve got new players in and from my teammates, all the staff, our members and fans, I couldn’t picture myself anywhere else. The club is on the up and I’m keen to be a part of this next chapter for the Bulldogs.”

Bulldogs Chairman John Khoury said that Burton’s signature was a crucial piece in Canterbury’s roster rebuild, which for season 2023 includes recruits Reed Mahoney and Penrith powerhouse Viliame Kikau.

Matt Burton debuted for his state and country in 2022. Picture: Naomi Baker/Getty

“Matt has been a wonderful contributor to our club both on and off the field over the past season and we’re excited that he’ll continue to be a part of our organisation for the years ahead,” Khoury said.

“As a club, we have been building towards a vision of success and stability, and the long-term signing of someone as talented as Matt reinforces the direction that we are headed in.

Burton arrived at Belmore as a premiership winner after starring for the Panthers in the 2021 grand final, where Ciraldo was an assistant coach to Ivan Cleary.

“He has a great relationship with head coach Cameron Ciraldo and we have only just seen the beginnings of his potential. We are extremely pleased to extend Matt’s contract, and this will see him working with Cameron and the Bulldogs for the next five years,” Khoury said.

Originally published as NRL 2023: Matt Burton re-signs with Bulldogs, contract details revealed