Controversial Wests Tigers recruit Taylan May has penned a new two-year contract with the club after rejecting an initial offer tabled by the joint venture.
The Tigers announced in a statement on Tuesday evening that May had re-signed on a two-year contract, which according to The Sydney Morning Herald is worth $1.25 million.
Prior to the announcement, the Herald reported that May had rejected a three-year offer worth $1.5 million.
May told the Tigers that he only wanted to re-sign for two years, and on more money per year.
The star centre, who joined the Tigers in June on a train-and-trial deal, has got his wish.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity the Tigers have provided me and the belief and faith that Benji [Marshall, the coach] and the coaching staff have shown in me,” May said.
“I’ve been able to live out a dream to play in the NRL alongside my brother [Terrell]. It’s something that we’ll both remember for the rest of our lives. I’m excited for that to continue and remain part of this group.”
Marshall said May had impressed the club since his mid-season arrival.
“The work he is doing not only on the field but off it to become a better person is awesome to watch,” Marshall said.
“We’re excited to see him get a full pre-season under his belt and know his best footy is ahead of him here at the Tigers.
“We’re happy to have him and his family with us for the next two years.”
May was sacked by the Panthers last year following multiple off-field incidents and domestic abuse charges, before the case was abandoned in court.
He was said to be earning $650,000 a season at the Panthers before being sacked.
He was earning $1200 a week on his train-and-trial deal with the Tigers.
He’s a talented centre who has represented Samoa four times and has been in hot form for the Tigers in recent weeks.
He has been earning $3000 extra for each game played, pocketing $21,000 in total match payments since debuting for the Tigers in round 20.
He joined his brother Terrell at Concord and the pair have expressed a desire to play alongside their other sibling, Tyrone, in the NRL at some stage.
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