David Fifita’s Titans deal set to be torn up for immediate move to South Sydney, Tom Trbojevic re-signs with Manly

Gold Coast are set to pay David Fifita to play for South Sydney from next year, with the star forward on the brink of a belated move to NSW.

The eight-time Queensland Origin representative is reportedly in line for a multi-year deal with the Rabbitohs beginning with the 2026 season.

Fifita is just over a year removed from backflipping on a commitment to join the Sydney Roosters.

He said he was “excited about the direction” at the Titans and “being close to home” while he also credited his family.

But he made just eight appearances this year and will cut ties with two years left on his deal.

News Corp reports Gold Coast and Souths are still finalising the deal but the Titans are expected to cover $500,000 of his $1 million wage.

Meanwhile, Tom Trbojevic has re-signed with Manly after drawn-out negotiations about a lucrative contract extension.

Trbojevic, who ended the season in the No.1 jumper after a stint in the centres, is set to earn $1.2m wage in 2026 but will take a haircut for 2027.

“I’m so pleased to be staying at Manly for at least another two seasons,” he said in a club statement.

“This club is such a big part of my life and always will be. I want to be the best I can be next season, and that will be my focus over the next few months in pre-season.

“I think the future looks bright here at Manly and it’s great to have my new contract put to bed.”

Trbojevic has previously stated he would never play against the Sea Eagles, where he played as a junior, and there was strong interest from England.

In August Trbojevic moved to deny claims he was unhappy with the direction of the club, conceding his form played a part in the Manly underperforming.

The Sea Eagles and Trbojevic had initially discussed a two-year extension, before negotiations began to drag on and reports of discontent emerged.

But in a shorter one-year deal, there are positives for both Trbojevic and Manly.

When fully fit and firing, Trbojevic remains one of the most influential players in the NRL.

He has admitted he has not played enough football due to injury through his current contract, which he signed back in 2019.

He hasn’t managed more than 20 games in a season since 2018. But in the 93 games he played in those seven seasons he scored 82 tries and set up another 95.

By taking a shorter contract, the fullback can prove his continued worth over the next 12 months and set himself up for another contract that will start when is age 31.

For Manly, they have the chance for a clearer picture of what their backline looks like over the next five years.

The Sea Eagles have toyed with playing Lehi Hopoate in the No.1 jersey and Trbojevic at centre, but abandoned that move after five games this season.

What position Trbojevic plays will naturally be tied to any future salary negotiations, with the centre role likely to command less money than the No.1 jersey.

- with AAP