Roosters halfback Sam Walker has reportedly been linked with a shock move to the Dolphins following his demotion from first grade.
According to The Courier Mail, an associate of the 20-year-old playmaker approached Dolphins officials to gauge their interest in his services prior to Magic Round.
It has also been reported Walker was spotted having lunch with Wayne Bennett last Thursday in Brisbane’s northern suburbs.
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Walker was the NRL’s rookie of the year two seasons ago but was dropped in place of Joey Manu in the Roosters’ halves.
His current contract expires at the end 2025 and multiple rival clubs are reportedly closely monitoring his situation.
The Dolphins are of the stance Bennett hasn’t spoken with Walker, but News Corp is reporting he received a phone call regarding a potential move.
The master coach reportedly informed the caller he was content with his current roster at this point in time, but the NRL’s newest franchise have cap space to burn.
Bennett also has previously worked with members of the Walker family, coaching Sam’s father Ben and uncle Shane at the Broncos.
Walker previously stated he wants to return to the Roosters first grade side, having been sidelined last round due to illness.
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“I definitely want to stay at the Roosters,” he said.
“The club has done a lot for me and I have been here for a few years. The Roosters is where I want to be and the talk about me leaving, there’s no chance of that.
“I love it at this club, I’m contracted here, and my first goal is to be playing NRL for the Roosters again.
“I’ve never thought about leaving.”
Bennett is reportedly a big fan of the young playmaker, but it remains unlikely he will make a play for Walker this season — instead keeping a stable roster.
