Catalan have money to burn, Tom is a very special player and we have seen that sort of money, paid for a player in RL even 20/30 years ago. Around that figure was apparently the figure we turned down for Tom from Wire a couple years back. Obviously circumstances are different now.

Am I right in thinking that we will get some compensation for Tom anyway?

No we’ll get nothing if he leaves at the end of the season as i expect is the case here.

As for 300 to 400k to go 4 months early? I’ll have some of what you’re drinking please. If he goes now we might just scrape a five figure fee.

The difference is the length of contract and any money paid would impact his contract. I would usually expect it to be from next season but one thing about Vastman, he I believe is fed information from the club to get out to the forum. He was initially in denial that TJ had signed for Catalan but now not only the fact he had but it was good business for us and it removes an unsettled player which suggests more immediate. I may be wrong but we should know soon.

So we won't be entitled to the compensation associated with his development then?

No he is too old and will be out of contract.

Only counts until a player is 21.

Absolutely not and I have to ask why you’d ever think we would. We have got more than our money back with Tom. We deserve nothing in that respect, the debt was paid long ago.

Lewis Murphy then you’d have a case.

If he does leave at the end of the season which I am sure he will the club had better use the recruitment budget to sign players who actually improve the squad rather than to just fill a shirt and have a squad number. This season as been particularly bad with exception of Hall.

Could be some light at the end of the tunnel with the spare cash and some deadwood moved on regarding signings ,personally hope he stops ,I’d like us to build a team around him ,but I’m sure we could make use of the extra money if he decides to move on . But I believe it’s every players ambition to win medals/cups ,and unfortunately we are well off the pace being a team fighting for regular honours at present and presumably for a while yet , so I’d imagine Tom is no different and think this season will be his swan song ,but hopefully leaving us in a safe position to move onwards and upwards in our new stadium

One thing about Tom, I suspect that if he is here until the end of the season he will be the type of player that gives his all right up to the final hooter of the final game, unlike some, sadly
Just seen this news which has somewhat marred an otherwise enjoyable day.
Good luck Tom. I'm proud to say that I witnessed the career of one of the best wingers that I've seen in 66 years of watching Wakefield Trinity.