EXCLUSIVE: Andrew Johns claims a Super League transfer ‘would be perfect’ for Tom Trbojevic

Andrew Johns has expressed his support for an international move for Tom Trbojevic as the injury-stricken Sea Eagles ace contemplates his options.

The 28-year-old is set to be out of contract at the conclusion of next season, with reports from The Sydney Morning Herald suggesting that the fullback might consider a stint in the Super League if he fails to secure a new deal with Manly.

Regarded as one of the finest players in the game, Trbojevic has encountered several injuries throughout his career and has recently faced more time on the sidelines.

The local junior, alongside his elder brother Jake, has made it clear he doesn’t wish to play against Manly, which has now paved the way for a potential move to England.

When probed about this prospect on Wide World of Sports’ Immortal Behaviour, Johns remarked that it “would be an ideal situation” for the former NSW Blues and Kangaroos legend.

“Possibly – yeah, I could see him making that move,” Johns suggested.

“Tom’s in a position where he doesn’t have a young family or kids. I think that would suit him perfectly. It would also be fantastic for the Super League if he does make the switch.”

“We need some star power to head over there.”

Johns is a prominent advocate for the UK league, having spent time with Warrington towards the end of his own illustrious career with the Newcastle Knights.

While the likelihood of Trbojevic concluding his career abroad remains slim, his current club has several significant decisions to make before November 1.

Trbojevic’s tendency to be injured, coupled with his substantial salary, has posed challenges for Manly over the years, often leaving them without their star player during critical moments.

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The situation has grown even more complex with the rise of promising talent Lehi Hopoate, who has admirably stepped in at fullback during Trbojevic’s absence.

According to Johns, the Trbojevic brothers’ mutual desire to conclude their careers with Manly is likely to result in the club offering them a short-term contract extension, allowing them to retire as legends of the club.

“This is his [Tom] 10th season, if you average that over about 26 games… it comes to around 260 [in total] and he’s only played about 159 games, missing 100 matches during that stretch, and this year he’s only participated in seven out of 14,” Johns elaborated.

“Everyone knows he’s a unique player, but considering the injuries and the emergence of Lehi Hopoate, we’re probably looking at one more year for Turbo at the end of next year.”

“Jake is in a similar boat; it’s well known that he too is nearing the end of his career. While he might be losing some pace and dynamism in attack, his defensive abilities are still strong.”

“Lehi Hopoate’s contract runs until 2027, and how the club manages that will be intriguing to see.”

“Manly has significant decisions to make, but I believe they’ll extend both Jake and Tom’s contracts for one additional year, allowing them to finish by the end of 2027.”

“Considering Lehi Hopoate’s growth as a player and his background as a local junior, this seems like a natural progression.”

“I believe this outcome would be fair and beneficial for all involved.”

Currently, Tom reportedly earns around $1.1 million per season at the Sea Eagles, while his older sibling Jake is on approximately $900,000.

When asked if he believes both players might consider sacrificing part of their salaries for the long-term benefit of the Sea Eagles, Johns had no doubts.

“Absolutely … they will definitely take a pay cut,” he asserted.

Manly is set to bid farewell to Daly Cherry-Evans at the close of this season in a divisive move for the fanbase, with Raiders halfback Jamal Fogarty already signed to take his place and team up with Luke Brooks for the 2026 and 2027 seasons.

Young talents Joey Walsh and Onitoni Large are viewed as the future halves pairing for the club.