Knights Chief Discusses Pursuit of ‘Crucial Missing Piece’ Dylan Brown: ‘He’s Given Us Plenty of Reasons’

Knights chief Phil Gardner acknowledges that securing the sought-after Parramatta player Dylan Brown is an “outside chance,” despite presenting him with “numerous reasons” to switch clubs.

In recent weeks, the five-eighth has been linked to a transfer to Newcastle, with reports indicating a lucrative 10-year contract is being considered for the Kiwi sensation.

Brown possesses an option within his contract with the Eels for each season up until 2031, granting him ample time to activate it prior to the 2026 season.

During a media briefing following a sponsorship announcement with McDonald Jones Homes on Tuesday, the club’s CEO elaborated on their interest in Brown, indicating that a multi-year deal would be essential to entice him to Newcastle.

“We must compete with his existing contract at Parramatta,” Gardner stated.

“He’s currently bound by a six-year agreement. It’s clear he won’t move for anything less. I genuinely believe we’re outsiders in this situation—his connection to Parramatta is strong, and they have treated him well, plus his family ties there.”

“However, we have certainly provided him with numerous incentives to consider joining us. If he does, he would have the opportunity to partner with ‘KP’ [Kalyn Ponga] and play alongside Fletcher Sharpe, coming to a club where he wouldn’t have to play second fiddle.”

“That being said, I still regard our chances as slim. But we aren’t dismissing the possibility… Given his age, a contract longer than six years is definitely a realistic consideration.”

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At just 24 years old, Brown has made a name for himself as one of the premier halves in the competition since debuting for the Eels as a teenager. He has played 123 matches in the NRL and has also represented New Zealand eight times on the international stage.

His ongoing collaboration with Mitchell Moses will be crucial for Parramatta as they aim for a finals comeback this season under the guidance of new head coach Jason Ryles.