The Sydney Roosters have made a significant acquisition by securing the services of David Fifita, outbidding Penrith with a contract valued at $3.3 million over four years. Despite the Panthers’ offer of $2.55 million over three years and efforts by both Nathan and Ivan Cleary to sway Fifita’s decision in the past 24 hours, the Roosters emerged victorious in the bidding war.
Matt Cameron, Panthers’ chief executive, expressed well wishes to Fifita upon learning of his decision to join the Roosters next season. However, when questioned about the impact of Fifita’s decision on the club’s recruitment plans, Cameron emphasized that their immediate focus is on an upcoming game.
Fifita’s choice to join the Roosters came shortly after he notified the Titans of his departure from the club at the end of the season. Following discussions with his manager, Michael Hudson, on Wednesday night, Fifita opted not to exercise an option in his Titans contract that would have guaranteed him $1 million annually for the next two years. Instead, he elected to move to Sydney.
The Roosters’ offer, slightly lower in annual value but extended over four years, won over Fifita, who communicated his decision to join them next season on Thursday afternoon. Despite the Panthers’ competitive offer of approximately $850,000 per season for three years, Fifita ultimately chose the Roosters’ proposal.
Fifita had until 8pm on Thursday to accept the Titans’ option for the next two years before finalizing his decision.
