EXCLUSIVE: Phil Gould Calls for Eels to ‘Resolve’ Strange Contract Issues Following Agent’s Uncomfortable Disclosure

Phil Gould has emphasised that Parramatta must urgently address its contract issues to avoid the Dylan Brown saga dragging on for the entire season.

Currently, Brown is contracted with the Eels until the end of 2032, but his deal includes multiple clauses that effectively allow him several opportunities to leave the club.

Over the off-season, his agent faced embarrassment after it was revealed he had sent an email to all 16 NRL clubs seeking expressions of interest for his client, who reportedly earns in excess of $1 million per season.

This email was leaked, causing manager Chris Orr to be left red-faced and once again putting the Eels under scrutiny for the unusual contract terms.

Adding to their complexities, Brown’s halves partner, Mitchell Moses, also possesses an option to leave before his contract concludes.

During the weekend, Eels CEO Jim Sarantinos stated that the club is actively collaborating with agents to address gaps in several player contracts.

“They need to address this,” Gould remarked on the Wide World of Sports’ Six Tackles with Gus podcast.

“It’s not viable to have your key players, particularly your playmakers, with the ability to leave every few years. It simply isn’t logical.

“You can’t concede so much just for short-term negotiations.

“This is an issue that requires urgent attention.”

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Gould warned that the problem will persist and attract media attention until the Eels take corrective actions with their contracts.

“They need to eliminate those exit options from the contract, that’s essential,” he stated.

“Whether that incurs extra costs or involves negotiations, I can’t say.

“I’m not privy to the details of the contracts, but come January, Dylan Brown was reportedly available on the market… despite being said to be signed through to 2032, he’s suddenly on the market for 2026.

“It just doesn’t add up.”

Last season was challenging for Parramatta, finishing in 15th place, which led to the sacking of coach Brad Arthur.

When asked about the Eels’ chances of making the finals this year, Gould expressed, “there are stronger teams around at present.”

He also questioned the club’s decision to allow experienced prop Reagan Campbell-Gillard to join the Titans.

“Campbell-Gillard’s departure is a significant blow; I simply don’t comprehend that move,” Gould remarked.

Additionally, the club parted ways with captain Clint Gutherson, who moved to the Dragons, while the Panthers snatched up promising rookie Blaize Talagi.

The Eels will kick off their season against Melbourne on March 9.