Damien Cook set to re-sign with South Sydney Rabbitohs

HE could earn as much as $800,000-a-season and clubs are circling, with negotiations to kickstart again in coming days.

DEAN RITCHIE

less than 2 min read

November 4, 2018 - 2:03PM

SOUTH Sydney hope to announce Damien Cook’s long-term retention within the next few weeks.

Cook and Rabbitohs management have engaged in top-level talks with the probable deal to span four years.

The NSW State of Origin hooker comes off contract after next season but can officially start fielding offers now.

The Daily Telegraph understands both parties are on the same page — Cook wants four years, so do Souths.

That would keep Cook at Redfern until the end of 2023.

Damien Cook is set to re-sign with the Rabbitohs.

Cook’s marriage on Saturday, his Test selection and South Sydney’s coaching change temporarily slowed down negotiations but they will kickstart again in coming days.

Sources close to Souths hope the deal can “be locked away in the next few weeks.”

Cook has enjoyed a breakout year after struggling to nail down a first grade position at previous club Canterbury and St George Illawarra.

Rival clubs are circling Cook, 27, but his first preference is to remain at Redfern.

With so few quality hookers on the market, Cook could demand big money, some suggesting he could earn as much as $800,000 a season.

Damien Cook recently made his Kangaroos debut.

Meanwhile, Souths will travel back to Mudgee for next season’s annual pre-season Charity Shield match against St George Illawarra.

A contract with Mudgee Council states Souths return again next season before then possibly exploring other options.

Souths and Saints have contested the Charity Shield since 1982.