Braith Anasta claims Tom Dearden management spoke to Sydney clubs

Braith Anasta stated that the management of North Queensland Cowboys half Tom Dearden has held discussions with clubs in Sydney regarding a potential transfer. Dearden is contracted with the North Queensland Cowboys through the end of 2029 and is not permitted to negotiate with other teams until November 2028 without express permission. The player has publicly dismissed reports of his desire to leave the club on multiple occasions throughout the year. Speculation regarding a move persists due to his partner's ties to Sydney and the upcoming birth of their first child. These claims surfaced following the North Queensland Cowboys' season-ending loss to the Cronulla Sharks in an elimination final on Saturday. Dearden remains a key figure for the North Queensland Cowboys, who are already set to lose teammate Scott Drinkwater to the St George Illawarra Dragons in 2027.

• 9:24 PMZero Tackle NRL — Braith Anasta makes bombshell Tom Dearden contract claim