Tyrone Thompson, an international prop who will likely test his worth on the free market, was a wise addition to the Knights’ roster in an attempt to persuade his identical twin Leo to stay with the team longer.
Leo has one year remaining on his current contract, which is reportedly worth $350,000. Several teams are willing to spend much more for the New Zealand player, who has had two fantastic seasons playing in the middle for Newcastle.
With teams like the Bulldogs and the Dragons looking to add some strength to their front pack, he will be free to negotiate with rivals starting on Friday.
Thompson has been with the Knights for the last three years and will return to the Kiwis side for this weekend’s must-win game against Tonga after he missed the Kangaroos clash due to suspension.
But the Knights are still in the mix to keep him, with Tyrone’s arrival next year on an NRL development contract to be a key factor when he decides where he wants to play in 2026.
Tyrone has come through the New Zealand rugby union system and represented the All Blacks XV side in 2022.
According to Knights head of recruitment Peter O’Sullivan, Tyrone is a very talented player who is driven to play in the NRL like his brother. After spending several years in top junior pathway teams and programs, he has demonstrated himself to be a very skilled and formidable rugby player, playing for the Maori All Blacks and All Blacks XV on an international level. “I still clearly recall seeing the brothers perform for Napier Boys High. Tyrone was an athletic forward, while Leo was a center. Both of them were exceptional players. “His willingness to follow Leo into the NRL is demonstrated by his willingness to leave his comfort zone in the All-Blacks system and try his hand at the NRL and he can’t wait to begin that journey to becoming a Knight.