The Perth Bears are reportedly preparing a game-changing offer to lure Queensland Origin star Tino Fa'asuamaleaui west, in what could become the richest deal in NRL history.
According to Code Sports, the expansion club is eyeing a five-year, $7.5 million contract that would elevate the Titans captain to the league's highest-paid player.
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Fa'asuamaleaui, 25, is contracted until 2033 but has an exit clause that can be activated for the 2027 season. That clause opens the door for formal approaches from November 1, 2025.
The move would reunite the Maroons enforcer with Bears coach Mal Meninga and recruitment chief Ezra Howe - the duo who famously persuaded him to leave Melbourne for the Titans in 2021.
While Fa'asuamaleaui's manager Simon Mammino insists his client is content on the Gold Coast, he confirmed they will be "testing the market" later this year.
"It’s a business and we’ll be having a chat to interested parties," Mammino said.
The Bears are building their inaugural NRL squad for 2027 and have a war chest reported to exceed $12 million.
A cap-linked ratchet clause could even push Fa'asuamaleaui's annual salary towards $2 million if the NRL increases the cap as expected.
The Titans, battling near the bottom of the ladder, face significant challenges to keep their leader.
Fa'asuamaleaui has voiced concerns about the club's direction, wanting stability and clarity before he makes a decision on his future.
Family ties could still work in the Titans' favour. Fa'asuamaleaui's support network is based in Queensland, including his brother Iszac who is a teammate on the Gold Coast.
Since debuting for Melbourne back in 2019, Fa'asuamaleaui has won a premiership, captained the Titans, and represented Queensland and Australia.
Known for his physical presence and leadership, he would instantly become the face of rugby league in Perth.