'The speculation is unfounded': Defiant Des Hasler claims he will coach Titans in 2026

Gold Coast coach Des Hasler has denied he's eyeing the exit door and says he plans on coaching the Titans into 2026.

A News Corp report last week claimed Hasler has already agreed with the club to end his contract a year early and make way for a sixth head coach since 2014.

It's also been reported that Hasler has clauses in his contract which will allow him to quit as soon as the Titans aren't a mathematical chance of playing finals this year.

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They sit last on the NRL ladder but are still just four wins - plus percentage - off eighth spot with eight rounds left in the season.

Following a 26-14 loss to Brisbane on Sunday, Hasler was asked if he wants to coach the team next season.

"Of course, yep," he said.

"I don't take any notice of reports because I know what we've got here and I know what's been said, so the speculation is unfounded.

"We have only been at it 18 months. I'm not trying to make excuses, I'm one of the most competitive people that you could come across, and it's not something I am enjoying, particularly when I know what's in the four walls.

"I think if you're going to be fair, if you're not looking at it in a biased way or you don't have an agenda, there are some great signs there tonight."

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Gold Coast captain Tino Fa'asuamaleaui insists the playing group has Hasler's back.

"For sure, I think every week, no matter what the situation is, you go out and play for your coach," he said on Sunday.

"Nothing changes for me, same mentality every week."

The Titans haven't finished higher than eighth since 2010 and have only played one finals game in the past nine years.

This year, they've copped several injuries and have lost five of their last six games, with two bye rounds in between.

Nonetheless, Hasler says his players deserve credit.

"What you saw tonight was the effort and the willingness to work hard," he said.

"If we can just execute better, and limit some of the mistakes... it is a very competitive side, so the future of the Titans, I think, is quite strong."

The Titans next play the Tigers on Sunday.