The Newcastle Knights are preparing a six-year contract exceeding $6 million to entice Parramatta Eels playmaker Dylan Brown, contingent upon his interest in switching clubs. The Knights’ football department has been deliberating on making a substantial bid to secure the services of the 24-year-old five-eighth.
Brown is currently under contract with the Eels until the end of 2031; however, his agreement includes clauses that allow him to explore opportunities elsewhere. The proposed deal from Newcastle would span from 2026 to 2031, aligning with these contractual stipulations.
The Knights envision Brown forming a dynamic partnership with star fullback Kalyn Ponga, aiming to enhance their attacking prowess. Presently, Brown is believed to be earning approximately $850,000 per season, with future increases pushing his salary above $1 million in subsequent years. To secure his signature, Newcastle would need to present an offer exceeding $1 million annually.
The Eels had previously agreed to include two release clauses in Brown’s eight-year contract. The first allows him to inform the club by Round 10 of this year if he intends to remain beyond the current season. The second clause permits him to exit the contract before Round 10 in the 2027 season, potentially nullifying the final three years of his tenure with Parramatta.
Newcastle has been seeking stability in their halves combination since Mitchell Pearce’s departure, with various players filling the role without long-term success. Brown, who has already played 131 NRL games and eight Tests for New Zealand, could provide the solution the Knights are looking for.
