Benji Marshall, Hull FC deal: Super League club tables NRL star monster deal
Benji Marshall has been tabled an offer that would see him overtake Gareth Widdop as the richest player in the English Super League.
Fatima Kdouh, Exclusive
November 30, 2020 - 6:25PM
Benji Marshall is set to become one of the highest paid players in the English Super League after Hull FC tabled a huge one-year deal to the veteran playmaker.
The Daily Telegraph understands Hull FC have made Marshall an offer for 2021 believed to be in the vicinity of £400,000 ($722,000AUD).
Last week, Marshall’s former Tigers teammate Brett Hodgson was confirmed as Hull FC’s new head coach.
Marshall and Hodgson were part of the Tigers’ maiden NRL premiership in 2005.
If Marshall, 35, accepts the deal he is set to earn as much as Warrington Wolves five-eighth and former St George Illawarra Dragons playmaker Gareth Widdop, who is the highest paid player in England.
It’s expected Marshall will make a decision about moving to England in the coming week.
Marshall has attracted interest from within the NRL but at this stage has been unable to come to an agreement with his suitors.
North Queensland and Cronulla expressed interest in Marshall but it’s believed both clubs were only willing to offer the 324-game veteran around $140,000 a season.
The ensuing tug of war between Canterbury and Penrith over Matt Burton could still well play a part in Marshall’s decision.
Marshall’s experience would be invaluable at a club like the Bulldogs, who have a crop of rising halves on their roster.
It’s understood Canterbury are interested in exploring Marshall as an option for 2021 but only if Burton does not receive a release from Penrith.
Trent Barrett is holding a spot for Matt Burton in his 2021 roster.