Herbie Farnworth Faces Contract Crossroads as Roosters Circle Ahead of November 1

Key facts

• Herbie Farnworth is contracted to the Dolphins until end of 2027.
• He becomes free to negotiate with rival clubs from November 1.
• on FanaticsTV that the Roosters are monitoring Farnworth.
• Farnworth earns around $1 million per season.
• The Dolphins have a record of 2 wins and 5 losses this season.
• Farnworth said he wants to re-sign with the Dolphins.
• Roosters have signed Daly Cherry-Evans and Reece Robson in the last 12 months.
• Mark Nawaqanitawase leaves the Roosters at end of 2025 for rugby union.

Contract Uncertainty Amid Strong Form

Herbie Farnworth, the Dolphins' English international centre, finds himself at the centre of a growing transfer rumour despite repeatedly stating his desire to remain in Redcliffe. With a contract running until the end of 2027, Farnworth will be eligible to negotiate with rival clubs from November 1, a date that has prompted speculation linking him to the Sydney Roosters. Farnworth has started the 2026 season strongly, building on an exceptional 2025 campaign that cemented his reputation as one of the NRL's premier centres. His combination of electric speed, strong defence, and try-scoring ability has made him a target for the Roosters, who are reportedly monitoring his situation closely. Journalist James Hooper revealed on FanaticsTV's Rugby League Insider that there is 'mail kicking around' about the Roosters' interest, noting that Farnworth's management stable includes Roosters captain James Tedesco, as well as recent signings Daly Cherry-Evans and Reece Robson.

Roosters' Salary Cap Flexibility

The Roosters have significant salary cap space following a series of high-profile departures. Mark Nawaqanitawase will leave at the end of this year to return to rugby union, while Daniel Tupou and James Tedesco are approaching the end of their careers. The club has also reportedly set aside funds to lure Joseph Manu back from rugby union. Despite upgrading contracts for young players, the Roosters remain well positioned to attack next year's free agency market. Their only major signing in recent times has been Reece Robson, leaving ample room for a marquee acquisition like Farnworth. Hooper theorised that the Roosters are 'very much having a look at Herbie' because of his international pedigree and skill set, which would bolster a spine already featuring Cherry-Evans and Robson.

Dolphins' On-Field Struggles

The Dolphins are desperate for a victory after a difficult start to the season. Following a humiliating 52-18 loss to Manly in Round 5, they have pushed top-of-the-table Penrith and the Warriors to the limit, losing by a field goal in golden point and by two points respectively. However, those valiant efforts have yielded only two wins from seven matches. Farnworth acknowledged the team's frustration, saying, 'Obviously we haven't won for a while now... we've got to start getting those two points now.' The upcoming match against Melbourne is a must-win for both sides, with the Storm also struggling for form. Forward Connelly Lemuelu echoed the sentiment, admitting the run of results has been frustrating but stressing the squad's commitment to staying positive and believing they can turn things around.

Farnworth's Public Commitment

Despite the swirling rumours, Farnworth has publicly expressed his desire to stay with the Dolphins. Speaking to 9News Queensland, he said, 'I've been here for two years now. I'm sure that'll (contract talks) will come naturally through Woolfie [Kristian Woolf] and people, so we'll see what happens.' His comments suggest a willingness to extend his stay, but the November 1 deadline opens the door for rival clubs to make formal approaches. The Dolphins will need to act quickly if they want to secure their star centre beyond 2027. Farnworth's previous contract negotiations saw him briefly entertain offers before re-signing, indicating that he is not averse to exploring options even if he ultimately stays.

What Comes Next

The next few months will be critical for Farnworth's future. If he does not sign an extension with the Dolphins before November 1, he can enter the open market and field offers from any NRL club. The Roosters, with their financial muscle and need for a long-term centre, are poised to make a play. For the Dolphins, the immediate priority is on-field success. A win against Melbourne could galvanise the squad and improve morale, but the contract saga adds an extra layer of pressure. Farnworth's performances will be scrutinised as he balances his commitment to the team with the uncertainty of his future. The situation mirrors previous high-profile transfer sagas in the NRL, where player loyalty is often tested by the lure of big contracts and championship aspirations. Farnworth's decision will have ramifications for both clubs and the league's competitive balance.

The bottom line

• Herbie Farnworth can negotiate with rival clubs from November 1, with the Sydney Roosters reportedly interested.
• Farnworth is on a contract worth around $1 million per season until end of 2027.
• The Dolphins have lost five of seven games this season, including two close defeats to top sides.
• Farnworth has publicly stated his desire to re-sign with the Dolphins.
• The Roosters have salary cap space due to upcoming departures of Nawaqanitawase, Tupou, and Tedesco.
• Farnworth's management stable includes Roosters players Tedesco, Cherry-Evans, and Robson.