NRL transfer news: Jonah Pezet rejects Storm contract as rivals circle Ryan Papenhuyzen

With rival clubs already circling star Ryan Papenhuyzen, Melbourne now risk suffering a crucial double blow after a rising star knocked back an extension.

Melbourne have suffered a blow with rising star Jonah Pezet knocking back a contract extension which will leave rival clubs circling.

It comes as Canterbury are set to make Storm fullback Ryan Papenhuyzen their No.1 target in a multimillion-dollar deal which could come as a crucial double blow for Melbourne.

Pezet had long been earmarked as a potential replacement for star halves Cameron Munster or Jahrome Hughes but the 21-year-old could now be on the move.

The Pezet camp had wanted a unique deal which would have allowed them to explore options for Pezet to have a 12-month loan deal in 2026 and a get out clause if Hughes re-signs at the club beyond his current deal which expires at the end of 2026.

The Storm formally put an offer through to Pezet which has been rejected after the options were not up to what Pezet had hoped.

The Storm risk suffering a brutal double whammy, after Jonah Pezet rejected a contract extension at the club. Picture: NRL Photos

It is understood a crucial meeting looms on Monday between Pezet’s camp and the Storm to try and salvage the deal.

But in the short-term there are a host of clubs who are prepared to step up their chase of Pezet now he is formally on the market.

Pezet is making his comeback from a knee reconstruction having played in Melbourne’s opening three games this year.

Pezet isn’t the only Storm player considering his future amid serious interest from elsewhere as the Storm brace for the Bulldogs to launch a big-money bid for Papenhuyzen.

Melbourne have been locked in talks with Papenhuyzen for more than a month, having tabled an extension to him in the hope of tying him up before November 1.

However, talks between Papenhuyzen and Storm majority owner Matt Tripp this week were unable to finalise a deal and Papenhuyzen has gone to November 1, leaving him open to offers from rivals.

The Bulldogs have identified off-contract Storm fullback Ryan Papenhuyzen as a priority signing. Picture: Getty Images

The Bulldogs are among those watching closely and it is believed they are ready to take a shot at signing the 26-year-old, who has been limited by injuries in recent years but remains of the best custodians in the game.

The Storm have an insurance policy in emerging star Su’A Faalogo, who is locked in long term with Melbourne. However, if Papenhuyzen stays in Melbourne, Faalogo has a verbal agreement with the Storm that he can explore his options on the open market.

The ‘Dogs largely used Connor Tracey at fullback this year but he is versatile and could play centre or wing if Papenhuyzen arrives in 2026.