Newcastle Knights reportedly 'worried' about Kalyn Ponga exit as Adam O'Brien's $2m sticking point revealed
Kalyn Ponga's future at the Newcastle Knights could become more clouded as pressure ramps up on coach Adam O'Brien to turn around the club's season.
Ponga has been subject to links with the Roosters since last year despite the fullback being contracted until the end of 2027.
The Knights currently sit 15th on the ladder and are struggling to score points with 179, the worst in the competition.
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Knights coach Adam O'Brien. Getty
Nine's Michael Chammas reported on 100% Footy that O'Brien's future is safe until at least the end of the year, with his pay-out a particular sticking point.
"They do not want to pay him out, it's $2 million, maybe a little bit more, he's got a full pay-out at the Knights," he said.
"There are alarm bells the way they are playing but he'll be given until the end of this year to turn it around with the Knights."
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O'Brien is also contracted until the end of 2027.
Chammas also revealed the Knights' struggles could lead to unrest with Ponga.
"Newcastle in the background are worried about what this means for the future of Kalyn Ponga," he said.
"Nothing has happened yet and they'll deny it but there is definitely a feeling at Newcastle that Kalyn Ponga, if things continue the way they're going, may come knocking at the end of the year looking for the exit door.
"That's the main concern around Knights about how they create an environment where Kalyn Ponga doesn't think he's wasting his best years at the Newcastle Knights."
Kalyn Ponga ahead of the Knights' elimination final against the Cowboys in Townsville. NRL Photos
The Knights have significant roster movements ahead for next season. Dylan Brown is joining on a rich $1.3 million 10-year deal while Jayden Brailey is departing, along with Leo Thompson.
Will Pryce has already left the club while Jackson Hastings won't be re-signed.
