Melbourne Storm front-rower and New Zealand international Nelson Asofa-Solomona has reportedly drawn interest from a Sydney club for the upcoming season.
Despite being one of the top props in the league, Asofa-Solomona has struggled with consistency this season, resulting in significant time spent in the NSW Cup. He is contracted with the Storm until 2027 (with a mutual option for 2028) but has been linked with a potential departure.
Club chairman Matt Tripp addressed these rumors, denying any immediate exit for the player. However, reports from News Corp suggest the Wests Tigers are keeping a close watch on Asofa-Solomona’s situation, especially as Stefano Utoikamanu remains uncertain about his future with the team.
Although Asofa-Solomona prefers to stay in Melbourne, he has faced difficulties breaking into the starting lineup amid rumors of falling out of favor with club officials. He is reportedly on a substantial salary of around $900,000 per season.
While the Wests Tigers aim to retain Utoikamanu, who has been offered a five-year extension worth around $800,000 per season, his hesitation has led the Tigers to consider Asofa-Solomona as a top replacement.
Youngster Lachlan Galvin, committed to honoring his contract until 2026, has urged Utoikamanu to stay with the Tigers. Galvin expressed his desire to see Utoikamanu remain with the team, emphasizing his importance to the club and the camaraderie they share.
