The Perth Bears are preparing to offer Canterbury Bulldogs star Matt Burton a lucrative contract that could span five years and be worth up to $5 million, aiming to secure him as their marquee player ahead of their inaugural NRL season. The deal would commence in 2028 with a guaranteed four-year term, and include an option for a fifth year should Burton make the move to Perth in 2027.

Burton, 26, currently remains under contract with Canterbury for the next season but has been granted early permission to explore his options. Sources close to the Bulldogs indicate that Burton is open to the possibility of relocating to Perth, motivated by a desire to lead and run his own team, a role the Bears believe he could fulfill as a running five-eighth. This would pair him with former Bulldogs teammate Toby Sexton, who is expected to take on organizing duties at halfback. If the deal goes through, Burton would become the 28th player on the Bears’ roster as they prepare to enter the NRL.

The Bears’ offer is reportedly valued at around $1 million per season, though the club’s salary cap constraints mean they may not pursue other prominent targets such as Sydney Roosters halfback Sam Walker or Canberra’s Hudson Young. Negotiations have included extended discussions between the Bears and Burton’s management, with Perth hopeful of securing an early release from Canterbury ahead of their first NRL match set for March.

Burton’s contract classification within the salary cap remains a point of negotiation, with Canterbury debating whether to list him as a centre or five-eighth. Friends familiar with the Dubbo-born player suggest that the laid-back lifestyle of Perth would suit him well. Alongside Sexton, Burton’s close relationship with another planned Perth recruit, Josh Curran—who also played with the Bulldogs—adds to the club’s confidence in assembling a core group of players with strong chemistry.

Canterbury Bulldogs general manager Phil Gould acknowledged the situation publicly, noting that Burton’s manager had requested permission to test the market. “The Bulldogs at all times retain last rights,” Gould wrote, emphasizing that the process aims to help both player and club better understand Burton’s market value.

As of now, Burton has not yet visited Perth, but the club remains “very hot” on securing his signature as they build their inaugural squad and look to make a competitive impact in the NRL competition.