EXCLUSIVE: Phil Gould reveals why Wests Tigers felt anxious about their early approach to Lachlan Galvin

Phil Gould has acknowledged that the Wests Tigers “grew anxious” by attempting to secure Lachlan Galvin’s signature well ahead of time, resulting in an “untenable” scenario for the club.

Last week, the 19-year-old declined an opportunity to extend his stay at Concord, confirming that he will exit the joint venture at the conclusion of next season.

Although Galvin wasn’t slated to be available to competing NRL teams until 2027 and was prohibited from discussions until November of this year, it’s now likely that his agent, Isaac Moses, will advocate for an early release from Galvin’s contract.

Having been demoted to reserve grade during the team’s Easter Monday defeat to the Eels, Galvin is expected to return to the first-grade line-up in round eight against Cronulla, where he can anticipate a chilly reception at Leichhardt Oval.

When questioned about the circumstances and the possibility of Galvin being met with boos on home soil, Gould expressed his sympathy for the fans and urged for a swift resolution.

“Well, I hope that’s not the case,” he remarked on Wide World of Sports’ Six Tackles With Gus.

“What a messy situation this has become. I genuinely feel for the fans. This needs to be sorted out promptly to stop it from dominating the headlines.

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“There’s a lot of misinformation swirling around … it’s detrimental to the game.

“It’s really escalated beyond control – they need to mediate on this ASAP and get it resolved. It’s untenable, and I can’t foresee a solution where he remains at the club.”

Galvin has reportedly been heavily linked with a move to Parramatta as soon as next year, contingent on Moses securing an early release from the Tigers, who have been made well aware that the five-eighth is not interested in a long-term commitment with them.

While it’s not unusual for clubs to push for the retention of players prior to the November 1 open market frenzy, Gould questioned the soundness of the club’s management and the effect their approach has had on Galvin’s situation.

“The Wests Tigers aimed to accelerate negotiations and reach a conclusion,” he commented.

“I can’t help but wonder what might have transpired had the Wests Tigers not initiated the contract extension talks and rushed for an answer now.

“It seems they got apprehensive in light of this whole November 1 thing. I believe everybody needs to own up to their part … it feels as if people are dancing around the issue.

“I’m sure he would be willing to play out the next 18 months with the Wests Tigers as that was his original intention – however, this premature inquiry and the subsequent response have opened the door for the manager to expedite his exit.

“His position at the club has now become untenable.”

One destination that Galvin will not be heading to in the coming years is Canterbury, as both the club and Gould have distanced themselves from the rising star this week.