In a stunning development that has rocked the rugby league world, Brisbane Broncos star Payne Haas is set to leave Red Hill, signing a historic deal with the Perth Bears worth a reported $5.6 million over four years.
The deal, averaging $1.4 million per season, would make Haas the highest-paid forward in NRL history, and a cornerstone signing for the Perth-based expansion side expected to enter the competition by 2027.
Sources close to the deal say negotiations accelerated in recent weeks after Haas’s management began quietly gauging market interest, despite public denials of any intention to leave Brisbane. The Perth Bears, backed by major corporate investors and seeking to build a marquee roster ahead of their formal league entry, made the aggressive offer to lock in the 24-year-old enforcer early.
Haas, who debuted for the Broncos in 2018 and has since become a State of Origin and Kangaroos regular, has long been seen as the heart of Brisbane’s forward pack. His exit is a massive blow to the Broncos’ long-term premiership ambitions.
Broncos CEO Dave Donaghy released a brief statement:
> “Payne has been an incredible contributor to this club. While we’re disappointed, we respect his decision and thank him for everything he’s done in a Broncos jersey.”
The Perth Bears are expected to formally announce the signing at a press conference next week.
Haas will remain with the Broncos until the end of the 2025 season.
