Canterbury Bulldogs General Manager of Football, Phil Gould, has addressed the swirling rumours surrounding key players Reed Mahoney and Toby Sexton for the first time since reports emerged earlier this week.
On Monday, speculation erupted suggesting that halfback Toby Sexton could be leaving the Bulldogs at season’s end, while hooker Reed Mahoney was reportedly granted permission to explore offers from rival clubs.
Speaking on 100% Footy, Gould clarified the situation, particularly regarding Mahoney, who is under contract with the Bulldogs until the end of 2026 on a reported $625,000-a-season deal.
The former club captain had a standout 2024 season, helping lead Canterbury to the NRL Finals and earning a spot in the extended Queensland Maroons squad. Despite this, rumours of his exit have persisted.
Gould confirmed that Mahoney’s manager, Sam Ayoub, was granted permission to speak with other clubs — but only regarding the 2027 season, when Mahoney’s current contract will have ended.
“I said by then the salary cap is going to be tight. Happy for you to have a look at him if you want to,” Gould explained. “So it came at his request. How that got into the media I don’t know. It wasn’t our request and there’s absolutely no talk of it being immediate. It was just an innocent request from the manager some time ago.”
Turning to Toby Sexton, Gould addressed the rumours of an impending departure, stating clearly that the club is not engaged in any contract talks with the young playmaker at this time — despite persistent efforts from his manager, Tas Bartlett.
“Firstly, on the articles regarding Toby Sexton — I haven’t seen them, but I’ll guarantee it’s the same journalist who’s written all the other ones in the last 12 months, who happens to be a friend of the manager who’s agitating for Sexton to get re-signed,” Gould said.
“I ignore all that rubbish. I’ve met with Toby several times over the last month. We’ve spoken about his football and his contract situation, just to ensure it’s not playing on his mind. It’s an important decision for both of us.”
Gould also revealed he had honest conversations with Sexton, including informing him of discussions with Wests Tigers young gun Lachlan Galvin.
“We keep our players informed. We’re honest with them. Toby’s very happy with where he’s at right now. We’re not in contract talks with him. His manager keeps pushing, but we’re focused elsewhere.”
The Bulldogs are heading into their second bye of the season, with the club’s long-term plans and roster decisions continuing to draw interest across the league.
Discover more from VIEWINFOR
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
