Phil Gould believes it’s far too soon for the Wests Tigers to consider offering a massive deal to Lachlan Galvin as reports emerge about the club’s long-term plans for the young star.
According to Nine’s Danny Weidler, the Tigers are weighing up a five-year contract worth around $1 million per season to secure Galvin’s future. The 19-year-old is currently signed until the end of 2027, but if he reaches the open market on November 1, he is expected to attract significant interest.
“The Tigers aren’t wasting any time,” Weidler said on 100% Footy. “They’re going to make a serious push for him soon. They’re ready to offer six figures for Galvin, though they haven’t confirmed it yet—that’s just what I’m hearing.”
Galvin has had a standout debut season, impressing fans and pundits alike as he plays alongside Jarome Luai. However, with multi-million-dollar contracts becoming common for experienced players, Gould worries that Galvin may be receiving such offers too early in his career.
“It’s a lot of money, but it comes with pressure and scrutiny,” Gould said. “He shouldn’t be earning that much at his age—there’s no need to put that on a young kid. Neither the club nor his manager should allow it. Money brings responsibilities, expectations, and obligations—do you really want to put that weight on someone so young? Ask any great playmaker, they didn’t want it at that age.”
Gould also stressed the importance of Galvin staying with the Tigers, calling it a “tragedy” if he were to leave.
“He needs to stay at the Tigers. The club has to figure out a way to keep him,” he said. “I truly hope he stays because losing his place there would be a real shame.”
If Galvin does become available, several clubs have the salary cap flexibility to make a move for him—but the Roosters won’t be among them. Weidler reports that the club has no interest in pursuing Galvin due to their refusal to negotiate with his manager, Isaac Moses. The Tigers are reportedly aware of the Roosters’ stance.
