The Parramatta Eels reportedly denied Zac Lomax’s request to have a coach clause inserted into his newly written contract.
9news and The Sydney Morning Herald reporter Michael Chammas revealed the departing Dragons star requested a clause to ensure he remains playing under the leadership of coach Brad Arthur.
However, club officials denied the request as pressure continues to mount on the coach to keep the Eels 2024 campaign alive.
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“Lomax was asking for a clause in his contract with the Parramatta Eels,” Chammas told Nine during half-time between the Sharks and Raiders.
“He wanted a coach’s clause inserted into that deal. The Eels have decided against inserting that clause and he won’t have his future tied to Brad Arthur.”
Lomax announced he will be joining the Parramatta Eels in 2025, with the club confirming the star centre inked a four-year deal earlier this month.
The 24-year-old will play the remainder of the season at the Dragons.
Arthur’s side has put a string of poor performances together this season and recorded another heavy defeat on Friday, losing to the Manly Sea Eagles 32-18.
Parramatta is currently positioned 14th on the ladder.
The Eels plummeted out of the top eight last season following a heavy defeat in the 2022 grand final to cross-town rivals and reigning premiers the Penrith Panthers.
Parramatta are yet to confirm what the future entails for coach Arthur at the club, with his current contract expiring next season.
The club has previously refused player attempts to tie their future under the leadership of Arthur, with Lomax’s case evidently no different.
Lomax’s new contract is reportedly worth around $2.6 million over four years, with the star accepting a $200,000 pay cut per season.