The Sydney Roosters are reportedly closing in on signing veteran halfback Daly Cherry-Evans on a one-year playing deal, with plans to transition him into a coaching role at the club in 2027.
The 36-year-old has spent his entire first-grade career with the Manly Sea Eagles, racking up nearly 350 appearances since his debut in 2011.
However, earlier this year, the club’s captain revealed that his contract would not be renewed beyond the current NRL season, sparking widespread speculation about his future.
Determined to play on into 2026, Cherry-Evans has been at the centre of intense speculation, and since news broke of his time with the Sea Eagles coming to an end, it’s been widely understood that the Roosters are poised to sign the seasoned halfback.
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While no official confirmation has yet been made, journalist Michael Chammas revealed on Channel 9’s 100% Footy that the deal remains firmly in place, with Cherry-Evans expected to announce his move later this year.
“My understanding is it's a one-year deal. He will announce that later in the year," Chammas said.
“It'll have a one-year continuing on as a coach.
“Danny [Weidler] last week spoke about how Daly Cherry-Evans will move into a coaching role once he retires.”
Cherry-Evans’ potential transition into a coaching role with the Roosters aligns with recent reports suggesting that Cooper Cronk, who has served as the club’s halves consultant since his retirement, is likely to depart.
"This is unrelated but it looks like Cooper Cronk's time at the club is coming to an end. My understanding is that he has been working as a halves consultant there for a number of years since retiring," Chammas stated.
“He wants to move in a different direction. He has different interests in life around the corporate world and at the moment he is struggling to make commitment and time around the Roosters.
“The club is aware of his feeling and it looks like his time at the club will come to an end as Daly arrives."