Looking back at the PR from when Bateman signed his last deal, next season could very easily be his last at Wigan;

rlhttp://www.wiganwarriors.com/news/2015-10-20-bateman-extends-contractrl

I really hope not.

Yep, the way it's worded, seems like he will be NRL bound at the end of 2018 or possibly 2019. I suppose a 'loose canon/free spirit' is the best way to describe him and his personality and it remains to be seen if he could establish himself in the NRL without incident. If he carries on progressing, on the field, as he has done, it would be absolutely superb if we could tempt him with a longer and improved deal.

I think if Bateman will go to the NRL,I've always thought that to be honest,if he has a good World Cup that'll seal the deal

The hope with Bateman staying is that he has a little girl who he seems very close to yet he's not with the mother. To leave her for 2 or 3 years may be too tough.