South Sydney Freezes 2027 Contracts But Prioritizes Tallis Duncan Deal

Tallis Duncan: The Lone Exception to the Freeze

While the Rabbitohs have hit the pause button on the majority of their roster management, Foxsports reported that the club is actively negotiating with Tallis Duncan. The 24-year-old forward has become a focal point for the club, which is eager to lock him down long-term despite a hamstring injury currently keeping him sidelined.

“For me, I think you’re looking at $600,000 minimum with a ratchet (clause) in. That’s a reasonable amount for Tallis … I said $600,000 with a ratchet, so that gets him to $800,000.”

Brent Read, journalist via Foxsports

According to The Sporting Base, the club is aware of external interest in the player and is moving to secure his signature before the free agency period opens. Duncan is reportedly open to remaining in cardinal and myrtle, provided the financial terms meet his valuation.

Latrell Mitchell and the November 1 Retention Crisis

The decision to pause talks is a high-stakes gamble for South Sydney, which currently has 18 players eligible to negotiate with rival clubs starting November 1. Among the high-profile names in that group is Latrell Mitchell. Foxsports reports that the club is waiting to see how Mitchell performs upon his return from back and calf injuries before committing to a deal that could reach $1.4 million per season.

“I’d still pay him a motza because as I have said … without Latrell, they can’t win a comp. I think he is that important to them and I would still give him big dollars.”

Brent Read, journalist via Foxsports

Beyond Mitchell, the list of players facing potential free agency includes Campbell Graham, Brandon Smith, David Fifita, Jack Wighton, and Peter Mamouzelos. The Sporting Base notes that this collective group represents as much as $6 million in potential salary cap space, a significant portion of the projected $16 million cap for 2028.

Strategic Needs and the Search for a Halfback

With Cody Walker likely to retire at the end of next season, the club is expected to target a high-quality halfback. While emerging talents like Ashton Ward and Jonah Glover are on the books, experts suggest the club will look to the open market to bolster their spine.

However, Walker is expected to command a deal exceeding seven figures on the open market.

As the club prepares for a crucial Friday clash against Melbourne, the immediate focus remains on stabilizing the current season. Management has notably cooled on the idea of extending Cody Walker’s contract, following a recent disciplinary incident involving an altercation with Jack Cogger, according to The Sporting Base.