Newcastle Knights’ CEO Phil Gardner has expressed his thoughts on the club’s pursuit of highly sought-after Parramatta star Dylan Brown, acknowledging that while they face difficulties in securing his signature, they have presented compelling reasons for him to consider a move. Reports indicate that Brown, currently under a long-term contract with the Eels, is exploring options, with Newcastle believed to have tabled an enticing ten-year deal.
Brown’s contract includes a player option each season until 2031, giving him the flexibility to make a decision about his future as early as the 2026 season. Despite the challenges, Gardner remains optimistic about the club’s chances, highlighting that a substantial offer would be necessary to compete with his existing agreement at Parramatta.
In a recent media interaction during a sponsorship event with McDonald Jones Homes, Gardner explained that the robust relationship Brown has built with the Eels, along with his family’s ties to the club, makes Newcastle an “outsider” in this race. However, Gardner emphasised that the prospect of playing alongside stars like Kalyn Ponga and Fletcher Sharpe could be alluring for Brown, potentially entitling him to a more prominent role at Newcastle.
Gardner described Brown as a pivotal figure who could enhance the Knights’ performance, stating, “Dylan, or someone like Dylan, is the missing piece for us.” He conceded that attracting such elite talent is crucial for elevating the club’s status within the league.
While Gardner remains hopeful, he reiterated that Brown’s future is uncertain, given the lure of a long-standing relationship with the Eels and the stability offered by his current contract. He declared, “We’re giving it our absolute best shot to get Dylan,” reaffirming the club’s commitment to securing the player’s services.
At just 24, Brown has made significant strides since debuting for Parramatta as a teenager, boasting 123 matches for the club and eight international appearances for New Zealand. His continuing partnership with Mitchell Moses will be crucial for Parramatta’s aspirations in the upcoming season under new coach Jason Ryles.
As Newcastle aims to strengthen their squad, the battle for Brown’s signature will undoubtedly be closely followed by fans, highlighting the dynamic nature of player negotiations in the NRL.