Neil Breen said on 2GB radio that the Roosters are working hard to ensure Suaalii stays with the team in the face of constant rumours. He also discussed the tactical issues related to Suaalii’s possible comeback to rugby league and Manu’s impending move.

“It’s about Joseph Suaalii, and I can tell you for a fact that the Roosters are working overtime to keep him at the club,” he stated.

“Joey Manu is playing rugby in France. James Tedesco is not getting any younger, as we all know.”

Breen noted the contractual complications but also emphasized the Roosters’ continued efforts to look for ways to keep Suaalii.

“It could be challenging for his management to tell rugby, “Hold on a minute if you want to get out of this contract.” We’ve agreed to this. He went on, “There ought to be some sort of restitution.

Breen further clarified the wider ramifications across the rugby codes, citing rugby union players’ interest being shown by rugby league clubs.

He mentioned possible discontent among players such as Jordan Petaia, saying, “Those players are filthy about the whole situation that someone’s coming across to rugby earning that massive amount of money.”

“And I can tell you that the Dragons are one club that is interested in him and is looking at him because they need to try and sign some guys.”