Rumours surrounding the future of North Queensland Cowboys skipper Tom Dearden have resurfaced, despite the club denying suggestions that the star playmaker could seek an early release from his contract.
The Cowboys star is contracted until the end of 2029 after signing a long-term extension last season, but speculation surrounding his future has continued to gain momentum.
Watch every game of every round of the NRL Premiership LIVE with no ad-breaks during play on FOX LEAGUE, available on Kayo Sports | New to Kayo? Join now and get your first month for just $1.
Speaking on NRL 360, CODE Sports reporter Brent Read revealed that whispers had been circulating since the pre-season and were driven by off-field factors rather than any dissatisfaction with the Cowboys.
“These rumours have been around since the pre-season. Tommy’s got a partner who lives in Sydney. She’s now pregnant,” Read said.
“She’s from and lives in Sydney, but I believe she’s moving up there now since she’s pregnant and there’s been some talk that there’s been some interest (in Tommy) and Tommy leaving the Cowboys.
“The Cowboys have denied this several times. There were rumours that his management met the club to talk about potentially leaving if his partner can’t settle into Townsville.
“My understanding is that it’s been spoken about (but) the club has denied that it’s going to happen or that it will happen.
“There’s a couple of factors to play. One, it’s going to depend on how his partner settles into Townsville. The other is that he is on so much money (at the moment).”
Jensen announces emotional retirement | 18:26
Despite the speculation, NRL great Gorden Tallis argued that Dearden’s partner should support the Cowboys captain in seeing out his contract, believing the halfback should and his role as a club’s marquee player should remain the priority.
“I don’t think it’s a decision for footy. I think it’s a decision for a relationship and his partner,” Tallis said.
“This is going to be difficult territory, but she’s got to support him through his contract.
“They can live for 50 years in whatever suburb. This is his time to shine and in North Queensland it’s not a bad place to bring up kids. It’s beautiful.
“He’s the marquee player there. You can always fly home to see your family. It’s a passionate region.”
However, if he ended up leaving the Cowboys and moving to Sydney, the Queensland Maroons representative would become the most sought-after player on the market.
It is understood that just about every rival club would line up for his signature due to his leadership, skills and potential, making him an attractive target.
Braith Anasta continued, “Dearden would have every club in Sydney (after him).”
