Melbourne Storm have already begun discussing a bumper contract extension for Cameron Munster according to SEN’s Michelle Bishop.
Munster, 27, comes out of contract at the end of 2023, meaning rival clubs can begin negotiating with the five-eighth for the 2024 season and beyond from November 1 this year.
With that deadline looming, Bishop says the Storm are trying to get on the front foot to ensure they keep their superstar in purple “for life”.
According to Bishop, the Storm have already gone to Munster’s management with a five-year extension that would see him through until the end of the 2028 campaign.
“Look, I think the Melbourne Storm are going all-out with a $4 million, five-year package,” Bishop said on SEN 1170 Breakfast.
“It’s probably a good start, as you say, they (Munster’s management and the club) are beginning contract talks.
“They want to retain Cam for life, as you say trying to keep Wayne Bennett and the Dolphins at bay.”
With the offer reportedly on the table, Bishop spoke about how quickly things have changed in Munster’s life since his career appeared at a crossroads in September after he was embroiled in the club’s “white powder scandal”.
“Interestingly though, we’ve seen how quickly things change in rugby league,” Bishop said.
“It (his career) seemed in serious jeopardy five months ago when he was caught up in that white powder scandal.
“It came out on Dally M night, it was awful, he was fined $30,000 and issued with a one-match ban.
“So much has happened since then, and I must say I’ve kept in contact with Cam from that period all the way up to last week via text.
“He’s had a stint in rehab which he obviously found quite difficult, but it’s obviously been successful.
“He has become a father in that time as well, he’s very hands on, I’m sure if anyone jumps on social media they’ll see he does everything and anything with his new baby. The baby has changed his life, it’s given him a new focus.
“He’s keen to have a big season and not repay or give back, but he feels he does have to do that due to his off-field antics.”
Along with Munster, Bishop says the Storm have also begun re-signing talks with his halves partner Jahrome Hughes with the Kiwi coming out of contract at the same time.
“They (Melbourne) have lost a stack to that new expansion club so their eyes are now firmly on Cam Munster and Jahrome Hughes for 2024,” she added.
The Storm kick off their 2022 season with a Round 1 clash against the Tigers at CommBank Stadium.