Melbourne’s surprise response to Brandon Smith rumour

The Melbourne Storm have spoken publicly about the future of “frustrated” larrikin Brandon Smith, addressing months of swirling reports.

Brandon Smith has had a year to remember. Photo by Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images.

Storm football boss Frank Ponissi says larrikin star Brandon Smith is likely to remain in Melbourne.

The Kiwi international’s uncertain future has been one of the biggest discussion points this season with the 25-year-old one of the most desirable stars in the game coming off contract at the end of the 2022 season.

There were signs earlier this year Smith would be lost to the Storm after his admission he had spoken with Bulldogs coach Trent Barrett. It came after the club had granted permission for Smith to discuss an early exit from his contract, if the club had been able to secure a suitable replacement.

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The Roosters, Titans and Tigers have also been linked with Smith, despite the No. 9 being unable to negotiate with rival clubs until the end of the year.

The Daily Telegraph reported in July the Storm had already moved to offer Smith a rich contract extension — a move confirmed by his agent. Smith’s manager Stan Martin said at the time he was “pleasantly surprised” by the reported $600,000 per-year extension offer.

“It is certainly a lot higher than I thought it would be,” Martin said,

“I was really surprised and I think they are aware of what it will take to keep him.”

The situation took another twist on Wednesday with Ponissi declaring in public the club is confident Smith isn’t going anywhere.

“He got a bit frustrated during the season because there was a lot of speculation that he was going to this club and that club,” Ponissi told SEN.

Brandon Smith celebrates scoring a try. Photo by Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images.

“From day dot he had no intention to leave. He’s got one more year to go and I think his intention is to stay.

“What he has made quite clear is he is incredibly focused on winning the premiership this year and I think he’s made that clear.

“He doesn’t even want to talk about next year.

“I think he gets a little bit frustrated when other people are talking about his future because he hasn’t.

“He’ll have his down time after the season and then come November and December we’ll get a little bit more serious talking about his future.

“I think he’ll stay. He’s a big part of our club both on and off the field and we certainly hope he stays and we’re confident that he will.”

Smith remains in a selection crunch with Queensland State of Origin star Harry Grant also fighting for the No. 9 jumper in Melbourne.

Smith has said several times this season he is not in any way deterred from staying with the Storm because of the battle to win a spot in the starting 13.

He said in May: “I will be at the Melbourne Storm next year, 100 per cent.

“I can’t leave that contract. I have spoken to (Storm general manager of football) Frank Ponissi and my contract is solid for next year. That is my future.

“If (clubs) want to make an inquiry it is for 2023.”