The Newcastle Knights are still hopeful of retaining Bradman Best beyond the end of his current contract, but head coach Justin Holbrook has admitted it won't be easy.
Best is off-contract at the end of 2027 with the Knights, and reports emerged during the week that he will likely test free agency on November 1.
The Knights' salary cap is stretched given the seven-figure deals outlaid for both Dylan Brown and Kalyn Ponga, and retaining Best on a figure potentially north of $800,000 per year may be the straw that breaks the camel's back.
With the PNG Chiefs entering the competition, further expansion likely in 2029, the Perth Bears likely still looking for squad upgrades in 2028, and the salary cap about to climb in line with the new record-breaking TV deal the NRL signed earlier this year, the Knights are facing a real battle to retain the star centre, who played Origin once again this year and will be in the mix for a Kangaroos jersey at the Rugby League World Cup.
"I love Braddy. I want him to stay. But, again, it's a juggling act. The salary cap's not that easy," Holbrook told AAP this week.
"If I had my way, I'd have every player, but there's a salary cap for a reason. So, hopefully, I'd love to see Braddy stay."
The Knights might be keen to retain Holbrook, but it has already been reported that the Parramatta Eels are preparing an offer for him if he is still uncontracted on November 1.
Well-placed sources have also told Zero Tackle that the St George Illawarra Dragons will be looking to bring in another significant investment in their own outside backs for 2028, with both Valentine Holmes and Clint Gutherson unlikely to be extended beyond the end of 2027.
Other clubs are almost certain to show interest in Best, who did go to November 1 last time his contract was up before deciding to re-sign with the Knights.
Holbrook said he was well aware other clubs would be interested.
"You'd think (there would be several clubs interested), definitely," Holbrook said.
Best leads the crop of centres off-contract at the end of 2027, although there is plenty of talent currently scheduled to be available, with the likes of Herbie Farnworth and Latrell Mitchell also currently uncontracted.
