The Newcastle Knights are hoping the influence of club captain Kalyn Ponga will help persuade Melbourne’s rising star Jonah Pezet to return to
his former club on a lucrative deal. The 21-year-old playmaker has quickly become one of the most sought-after talents on the NRL open
market. Although he is contracted with the Storm until the end of the 2025 season, Pezet is free to negotiate with rival clubs.
While Melbourne has reportedly ruled out the possibility of loaning Pezet to an NRL rival, as they did with Harry Grant in the past, the young
halfback is eager for more game time. He currently finds himself behind established playmakers Cameron Munster and Jahrome
Hughes in the Storm’s lineup. Newcastle, keen to bolster their halves, has reportedly made a strong pitch to bring Pezet back to the club
where he played junior football from 2018 to 2020. To aid in their pursuit, the Knights have enlisted the help of Ponga, with the club’s
superstar captain believed to have met with Pezet over dinner to present their vision and the opportunity on offer.
According to reports, Newcastle has tabled a four-year contract worth approximately $2.5 million, a deal that would provide Pezet with
both financial security and a prominent role within the team. The decision on Pezet’s future at the Storm could depend on whether Melbourne
opts to extend Hughes’ contract beyond its current expiration in 2026. It is understood that Pezet’s camp, led by manager Braith Anasta, will
hold critical discussions with Storm officials in the coming weeks to determine the young playmaker’s next move.