[h=2]BUNNIES LIVEWIRE BRISBANE BOUND?[/h]ANOTHER crisis has hit strife-torn Souths with key playmaker Cody Walker set to sensationally renege on his new Rabbitohs deal to join the Broncos over a pay dispute.
The Inside Mail can reveal Walker will sign with Brisbane within days unless the Rabbitohs come to the party with an urgent upgrade for the 26-year-old.
Walker will decide his future next week, just days before Souths’ clash with the Broncos at ANZ Stadium.
The Rabbitohs are already battling drama on several fronts with centre Kirisome Auva’a facing a 12-week drug ban and forward utility Paul Carter fighting for his NRL career after an off-field indiscretion.
Now they are in danger of losing Walker, who has become a critical part of Souths’ scrumbase plans following the impending departure of Luke Keary to the Roosters next season.
Walker agreed to a two-year deal with Souths last month but technically remains a free agent as he has not formally inked the contract or had it registered with the NRL.
That has opened the door for the Broncos, who are ready to table a fresh three-year deal worth around $600,000 after their initial bid for Walker failed last month.
Souths boss Shane Richardson was holidaying in Ireland last week when he was notified of Walker’s desire for a pay rise.
The Rabbitohs are desperately trying to put together a revised offer, but if the upgrade does not meet Walker’s asking price, he will be in Broncos colours next season.
Walker has been among Souths’ best players in recent weeks and the Broncos regard him as a valuable utility who can be a Shaun Berrigan-style game-breaker off interchange.
