Broncos deny Folau pressure

Brisbane boss Bruno Cullen has vehemently denied rumours that the Broncos will pressure Israel Folau into re-signing with the club.

Folau, 21, has been linked with new Super 15 rugby union side Melbourne Rebels and the new AFL franchise team to be based in Western Sydney.

The Rebels are confident of signing the in-form youngster, after he failed to agree an extension with his contract with the Broncos.

But club Chief Executive Bruno Cullen says the Broncos will give Folau all the time he needs to make a decision.

He said: “The Brisbane Broncos today categorically deny that they have or will put pressure on Israel Folau in regard to the timing of his announcement about his future.

“Media reports that today state the club has placed deadlines on him are totally incorrect.

“Israel is currently a member of the Broncos family and is weighing up his options with regard to his future.

“The club is giving him as much time and space as possible to enable him to do so without any added pressure.

“The club has not made an offer for his services beyond this year, as had also been suggested.”