Tell him that the predicted future of the game includes a 14 that fills in at 9. He could go and play 80minutes at another club but he will likely be shortening his career by doing so. We value him as being part of the club now and in another 10 years.he doesn’t want too that’s the whole point
he’s over doing the apprenticeship now. my guess is the club promised him the 9 jersey when Api’s current contract was up, and api’s decided he’s not ready to retire.
Re-promise him the 9 jersey after Apis current contract. Explain that by 2028 you expect him to surpass Api as the dominant 9 at the club whilst Api will be spelling him and providing value in the 14 role. Use this to reinforce the desire to give him a long term career Api being the direct example of limiting minutes to extend his career.
This really should be an easy sell if there is nothing more to it and he does want to be a part of the club