Sea Eagles statement on Mitchell Pearce

The Manly Sea Eagles have released a statement regarding today's speculation surrounding the future of Mitchell Pearce.

The statement concedes that Pearce will not be joining the club in 2018 but does outline that the club made every effort to sign him.

Head coach Trent Barrett states that Manly would not get in a bidding war with any other club and that Pearce himself was honest and upfront throughout the whole process.

Read the full statement below:

Manly Warringah Sea Eagles understands Mitchell Pearce has chosen to play at another club in 2018.

“On behalf of our members, fans and corporate partners, we made a serious effort to secure Mitchell’s services but there was always a limit to that offer in order to ensure our ability to continue to attract and retain the very best playing group over the years to come,’’ said Manly CEO Lyall Gorman.

“There are a number of very capable and exciting young players coming through our ranks and a major focus is to invest strongly in their development.

“We wish Mitchell every success in his future career.”

Sea Eagles Coach Trent Barrett said the Club would now move forward.

“We put in a very strong offer for Mitchell. We were not going to get in a bidding war with any other Club,’’ Barrett said.

“Mitchell was honest through the whole process and we wish him all the best.

“We move forward with a very, very competitive playing roster for 2018 and onwards. We look forward to the year ahead.”