Joey Manu has told the Sydney Roosters that he would likely depart the team at the conclusion of the season as he considers various lucrative offers from French and Japanese rugby clubs.
Although Manu has yet to sign a contract with a rugby union team, the Roosters are secretly resigned to losing him at the conclusion of the 2024 season, barring a sudden change of heart.
Manu and his management have held a series of discussions with the Roosters about his future as he considers offers of up to €700,000 ($1.157 million) per season in France.
He also has offers on the table in Japan but this masthead has been told he is leaning towards playing in Europe.
Manu has told the Roosters he does not want to play for another NRL club but is keen to try something different. He has also told the Tricolours if he returns to the NRL, he will only play for them.
Manu spoke to this masthead on Monday about his genuine interest in a code switch, distancing himself from a proposed short-term stint in overseas rugby in which a mid-season return to the Roosters could be negotiated.
“It’s an option, I think rugby is a challenge,” Manu said. “If I go to play rugby, I’m focused on rugby, not on coming back.
