Tom Hazelton's Contract Negotiations with Knights Face Challenges
The contract talks for Sharks enforcer Tom Hazelton with the Knights are facing disruption due to his management's high asking price, despite interest from multiple clubs.
Sharks enforcer Tom Hazelton's contract negotiations with the Knights have reportedly hit a stumbling block, primarily due to his management's asking price being deemed too high.
Hazelton has become a fan favourite in recent seasons, solidifying his position as a crucial member of Craig Fitzgibbon's forward pack in 2024, during which he scored seven tries.
The 26-year-old's current contract is set to expire at the end of the 2025 season, and the Knights have expressed interest in acquiring his services.
However, according to The Newcastle Herald's Barry Toohey, Hazelton's potential move to the Hunter club has been stalled because of his "current asking price".
Having joined the Sharks' top 30 in 2023, Hazelton's breakout season has led his management to seek a lucrative contract on his behalf.
The Knights see Hazelton as a potential replacement for Leo Thompson, who recently signed a four-year deal with the Bulldogs, effective from 2026.
Additionally, Hazelton faces competition from the arrival of Addin Faonua-Blake at Cronulla, suggesting a forward pack squeeze is likely before Round 1.
Regardless of these challenges, Hazelton has established himself as a key member of the Sharks' prop rotation. His management informed WWOS that he has drawn interest from various clubs.
"I have had inquiries from seven or eight clubs about big Tom - they are waiting until November 1 when they are officially allowed to talk to him about 2026," manager Gavin Orr stated in September.
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