The Gold Coast have signed Tino Fa’asuamaleaui and David Fifita to monster long-term deals worth an estimated $15m.
What can only be viewed as the ultimate show of faith in incoming coach Des Hasler, the Titans confirmed Fifita had extended his stay until the end of 2026, while Fa’asuamaleaui is now contracted until 2033.
Both players had clauses in their deals that allowed them to test the market after coach Justin Holbrook was sacked earlier this season.
The Raiders were keen on Fifita and the Storm had expressed an interest in luring Fa’asuamaleaui back to the Victorian capital.
But after meeting with Hasler last week, both players signed off on the deals before their Friday clash against Cronulla.
Fa’asuamaleaui, who was off contract at the end of 2024 – and had options in his favour for 2025 and 2026 – celebrated his deal by scoring an excellent individual try. The home fans then wanted him sent off when he clipped Connor Tracey high before half-time.
Titans prop Tino Fa’asuamaleaui playing against Cronulla.Credit: Getty
Daly Cherry-Evans has given Manly plenty of bang for their buck after he originally signed an eight-year, $10m deal. Cowboys fans would give Jason Taumalolo a pass mark to date after he inked a ten-year, $9m deal that ends at the end of 2027.
Titans CEO Steve Mitchell was thrilled about the double deals, and the impact Fa’asuamaleaui had on the local community was “immeasurable”.
“Kids in our region already aspire to be like Tino and having him committed for the next decade is a huge boost for our fans and members,” Mitchell said.
“Tino and David and their families believe in our purpose, and I’m excited to see them bring it to life under Des Hasler in 2024.”
The Titans trailed Cronulla 20-6 at half-time.
More to come …
