The Newcastle Knights have officially put an end to the swirling rumors linking them to St. George Illawarra Dragons star Ben Hunt. Following a surge of speculation around Hunt’s potential transfer, Knights CEO Phil Gardner spoke out, stating unequivocally that the club has no intentions of pursuing the Dragons playmaker.
In a recent interview, Gardner addressed the situation directly, hinting at frustration over the unfounded rumors. “We were never in for him,” Gardner stated, emphasizing that the Knights are satisfied with their current roster and do not see a need for Hunt’s skillset at this time. Gardner’s comment effectively shuts down weeks of speculation and highlights the club’s commitment to the talent they already have on board.
“Rumors are flying around, but we’re in a good position with our squad,” Gardner added, reassuring Knights fans that the organization is focused on developing and supporting the current lineup rather than seeking high-profile trades. This statement aims to solidify confidence within the Knights community as the team prepares for the upcoming season.
The rumors of Hunt’s potential move have been a point of debate for NRL fans, with various clubs reportedly interested in the talented Dragons playmaker. Hunt’s contract situation has been under scrutiny, with several teams exploring potential deals to bring him on board. However, Gardner’s declaration confirms that Newcastle will not be part of that race, focusing instead on strengthening from within.
For the Knights, Gardner’s comments also reinforce their long-term strategic direction. As the club builds around emerging stars, they seem determined to avoid any disruptive changes that could interfere with the positive momentum established over recent seasons. By sticking to their development plans and maintaining confidence in their roster, the Knights signal that they are committed to sustainable growth, rather than quick fixes in the form of high-profile transfers.
While Hunt’s future remains uncertain, Newcastle fans can rest assured that their team’s management is steadfast in its approach. And for Hunt, Gardner’s remarks underscore the ongoing challenges of finding the right fit amid a complicated transfer market. With Newcastle officially out of the picture, Hunt and his management will need to reassess their options as they navigate what’s next in his NRL career.