Brimson’s future still undecided over key sticking points

AJ Brimson's future is still unresolved, with the revelation that the PNG Chiefs are refusing to pay all of his salary for a move to the club in 2028.

The star Titans utility, predominantly a fullback but forced to play at five-eighth and in the centres in recent times, is contracted long term on the Gold Coast but has permission to leave immediately.

That came with Brimson seeing no path back into the number one jersey on the glitter strip given they have invested heavily in the future of Keano Kini.

Even playing in the halves is a long shot with the emergence of Zane Harrison at halfback, signing of Luke Hanson from the New Zealand Warriors, and now clear first-choice five-eighth being Jayden Campbell under the coaching of Josh Hannay.

While Brimson has previously said he is happy to play anywhere for the good of the team, his preference is to be a fullback, and he will be able to look for opportunities elsewhere to do just that.

The PNG Chiefs are the likely home for Brimson come the start of 2028, but News Corp have revealed his contract value is a sticking point.

As it stands, the Titans are paying Brimson around $900,000 per year, meaning he can not accept less than that to play for another club until the end of his current deal which expires at the end of 2030.

The Chiefs could negotiate with the Titans to ensure they pay some of the fare towards Brimson relocating ahead of the 2028 campaign, but at this stage, the Titans' desire to do that is unknown.

It's likely most clubs will think twice about assisting the Chiefs given the enormous salary cap advantage they have already gained by being able to play players without tax.

The Chiefs have already spent big money on their backline with Brian To'o, Alex Johnston, Joseph Manu, Zac Lomax and half Jarome Luai locked up for 2028.

It ultimately means they may not be able to afford $900,000 for a fullback, although their appetite to have Brimson run around for them in their inaugural season is clear.

As negotiations continue, there is also the small issue of Brimson managing to find a one-year stop-over somewhere in 2027.

Brimson and the Titans are both keen to end the agreement ahead of 2027, however, another club will need to have both a roster spot, money available and the need for a fullback to sign him.

As yet, there have been no takers, and maybe the most likely option in the Perth Bears are also out of the mix with coach Mal Meninga revealing last month the club couldn't afford Brimson even if they wanted to.