- Reece Walsh has reportedly agreed a new deal with Brisbane
- It will see him earn $5million over the course of his contract
- But Andrew Johns says the new deal is a ‘steal’ for the Broncos
Reece Walsh has reportedly agreed a contract extension with the Brisbane Broncos that will see the young gun pocket $5million.
But according to Andrew Johns, the Broncos have got the far better end of the deal.
The star fullback has been the subject of a contract saga which has rolled on for the best part of 12 months, but the Courier Mail reports that the Broncos have broken the deadlock and struck terms with their best player.
As a result, Walsh will not be free to negotiate with rival clubs post November 1, as NRL stars are permitted to do when entering the final year of their contract.
Despite pocketing a sizeable pay increase and becoming the best-paid player in the history of the club, with a wage of $1.1million a year, Walsh’s value is understood to be far higher and other clubs could have offered him more money.
But such is Walsh’s love for Brisbane and his teammates, he has backtracked on his initial demand of $6million.
Johns believes that Brisbane will be absolutely delighted with the deal.
‘It’s a steal. It’s an absolute steal. If he stays on the field,’ Johns said.
Former NSW Blues coach Brad Fittler added: ‘From the Broncos’ point of view, it’s a bargain.’
Reece Walsh has reportedly agreed a new deal with the Brisbane Broncos
Footy great Andrew Johns says the Broncos have got an absolute ‘steal’
Walsh’s Queensland coach Billy Slater said: ‘He’s 22 years old and played 75 NRL games – the next 125 games will be with the Broncos and that will be the best period of his career.
‘I’ve worked closely with Reece, he’s got a great work ethic. He’s a very respectful young man – he has got a perception out there that he’s a bit of a larrikin and likes the limelight, but he works really hard and he loves the game of footy.
‘The great thing for the Broncos is that you’ve got this young star who wants to be a Bronco — imagine how many clubs out there would love Reece Walsh.’
