Gold Coast Titans skipper Tino Fa’asuamaleaui has brushed off mounting speculation about his long-term future, insisting his focus remains on playing football despite reports linking him with a move away from the club.
The 25-year-old forward, who is contracted to the Titans until the end of 2033 on a landmark 10-year deal, holds a get-out clause that would allow him to walk away at the end of next season.
While the Titans are desperate to retain their captain, veteran journalist Phil Rothfield has reported that the Dragons, Bulldogs, and incoming Perth Bears are circling.
The Bears are reportedly lining up a blockbuster five-year, $7.5 million offer in a bid to lure him west.
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In his first game back from a three-week injury layoff — a tough 54-22 defeat to Cronulla on Saturday — Fa’asuamaleaui was quick to shut down speculation about his future when pressed after the match.
“I’m at the Titans. I’m dedicated to playing well for the Titans and my coach,” Fa’asuamaleaui said in his post-match conference interview.
“My manager is dealing with that stuff, but I’m here.
“I’m dedicated to the next three weeks and get some wins and some pride in our jersey.
“I just want to get back to playing football, I’ve been out for the last month so I’m not worried about the external stuff.”
The Maroons star also found himself in the headlines over his potential international allegiance, with reports suggesting he could follow Payne Haas in switching from Australia to Samoa ahead of October’s Pacific Championships.
While Haas has reportedly informed Samoan teammates of his decision, Fa’asuamaleaui kept his cards close to his chest.
“No. I’ve been in rehab. It’s pretty hard to think about football when you’re not playing football,” he said.
“I just want to get back out there and play well for the Titans and worry about that later on.”