BY STAFF WRITERS

The Newcastle Knights have announced the re-signing of star fullback Kalyn Ponga on a new five-year contract that ends his speculation he was set to leave the Hunter to join the incoming Redcliffe Dolphins.

Ponga will remain a Knight until the end of 2027 on what is believed to be a $5 million deal.

“Kalyn is a quality person with great family values,” Knights CEO Phil Gardner said on Wednesday.

“We are delighted to secure his future and look forward to watching him lead this club for a very long time.

“This signature adds to the forward momentum we are building, giving loyal Knights members and the local community another reason to be excited.

“Kalyn sees the vision and direction we have committed to take for the club. He agrees we have the right coach, appreciates the exciting new facilities, and wants to succeed with the Newcastle Knights.

“I want to personally thank Kalyn, and his father Andre, for the respectful manner and professional approach they have applied throughout negotiations.”

There had been reports of bad blood during negotiations with whispers Kalyn’s father, Andre, had almost killed the deal for his son to stay in Newcastle but all that was settled with the announcement from the club.

“I would like to thank everyone who has helped throughout this process,” Ponga said.

“I’m grateful for the huge amount of time and hard work it has taken to get this new five-year deal completed, especially my family and key people from the club.

“My teammates have been awesome, they have shown me every respect and patience, without any pressure throughout the negotiations.”

The Knights currently sit 11th and host the Eels this Sunday.