Manly signs Haumole Olakau’atu to the end of 2031
After signing a contract with Manly until the end of 2031, forward Haumole Olakau’atu will soon make his State of Origin debut, according to coach Anthony Seibold.
With the exception of Tino Fa’asuamaleaui of the Gold Coast, who inked a 10-year contract earlier in 2023, Olakau’atu now has the longest contract in the NRL.
The wrecking ball back-rower had a contract that was set to expire in 2024 and 2025, but the Sea Eagles have taken action to keep him from leaving on the free market as teams like Wests Tigers and St George Illawarra have been connected to him.
After agreeing to play for another six years, the 25-year-old will now probably finish his NRL career at Manly.
“We feel that Haumole’s best years are ahead of him and that he can develop into an elite player who can play at State of Origin level for the NSW Blues,” Seibold stated.
“He has previously represented Tonga in Test matches, but at this point in his career, he is qualified to participate in the State of Origin.
“He is playing consistently if he plays State of Origin. His persistent emphasis at Manly is that limited.
“Haumole is a fantastic player, and we are grateful to have him.
“The club has invested in his long-term career and we want Haumole to be a one-club player.”
Olakau’atu has 29 tries in 73 appearances with the Sea Eagles, and he is well-known for his powerful runs and deft offloading techniques.
The estimated $7 million over eight years cost of the bumper replacement would significantly reduce Manly’s pay cap when they are spending big on several other key players.
The three most paid players at Manly are Jake and Tom Trbojevic, as well as captain Daly Cherry-Evans. Josh Schuster, another back-row player, receives compensation that exceeds $800,000.
