The Sydney Roosters have strongly refuted claims of extending a formal proposal to rugby union talent Max Jorgensen, though they acknowledge their interest in having him join the team in the future. They’ve been informed that Jorgensen is considering a transition to rugby league and could potentially join the club either in 2026, following the British and Irish Lions tour, or in 2028, post the Rugby World Cup held in their home country.
Jorgensen, with only 14 Super Rugby appearances under his belt, is set to become a free agent as his contract with the Waratahs and Rugby Australia expires this year. Despite his youth, the 19-year-old, who was part of the Wallabies’ World Cup squad last year, expressed his desire to continue his career in rugby.
In a statement made in February, he emphasized his passion for the sport and his ambition to leave a mark by representing the Wallabies. He highlighted the allure of participating in major events like the World Cup and the upcoming British and Irish Lions tour, noting their rarity and the significance of seizing such opportunities.
On Wednesday, a News Corp publication claimed that the Roosters had presented Jorgensen with a two-year contract valued at $1.8 million. Nevertheless, the club has vehemently refuted these assertions. “We have not extended him an offer,” stated Roosters chairman Nick Politis to this publication.
Additionally, Roosters coach Trent Robinson, who has a longstanding relationship with Jorgensen dating back to his childhood, asserted that the club has not engaged in contract discussions with the teenager since his previous contract expiration.
However, Robinson expressed his openness to having Jorgensen join the club down the line. “I’ve known him since he was a child,” Robinson stated. “I’m close friends with his father. We had him training here previously. There’s always an opportunity for that in the future, although it hasn’t been a topic of discussion since our last attempt to recruit him.”
Opportunities remain available for Jorgo whenever the timing aligns. There’s no rush or pressure in that regard. When the moment arises, we’ll likely need to engage in discussions well in advance to ensure everything is properly arranged, considering his potential.
The Roosters are facing the departure of several key players at the end of the season. Joseph Manu is anticipated to leave for a Japanese rugby club, while Joseph Suaalii is set to join the Waratahs for the upcoming Super Rugby Pacific competition under his $1.6 million agreement with Rugby Australia.
Suaalii may have the opportunity to accompany the Wallabies on their European spring tour in November this year if he receives the nod from new head coach Joe Schmidt.
In response to the rugby union’s actions, the Roosters have countered by securing Wallabies star Mark Nawaqanitawase for the upcoming year.
According to the News Corp report, Rugby Australia presented Jorgensen with a two-year contract, but the specific years were not disclosed.
Rugby Australia and NSW Rugby have proposed a three-year contract to Jorgensen and his representatives, aiming to secure his services until the 2027 World Cup.
Rugby Australia declined to provide any comment on the ongoing negotiations. “We refrain from commenting on speculations or discussions,” stated a spokesperson from Rugby Australia. “Our focus remains on collaborating with Max and his management regarding his future.”