Sea Eagles make monster $8m call on rising star

Haumole Olakau'atu has re-signed with the Manly Sea Eagles on a long-term deal, having previously been upgraded at the end of last year until 2025.

Olakau'atu's new deal extends his time at the club for another eight years, worth $1 million-a-season, according to Nine's Danny Weidler.

"Manly have just secured Haumole Olakau'atu for the next eight years," Weidler tweeted.

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"The giant back rower has done a deal worth around $8 million dollars."

In a statement confirming the six-year upgrade, Manly coach Anthony Seibold spoke of his belief that Olakau'atu could play State of Origin in the future.

"We have seen the growth in Haumole over the last couple of years but, in particular, the last 12 months,'' he said.

"From a physical point of view, Haumole is an 80 minutes back-rower now.

"The biggest thing that has impressed me over the past year is that Haumole has given himself to the team in a way that a lot of people are now following him.

"We have seen those leadership qualities in him.

"Haumole has graduated into a leadership position at Manly and that's been the most exciting part of him as a person. He has also grown into a devoted family man.

"We feel that Haumole's best years are ahead of him and that he can develop into an elite player who can play at State of Origin level for the NSW Blues.

"He has already played at Test level for Tonga but he is at that part of his career now where he can play State of Origin.

"If he plays State of Origin, it means he is playing consistent. That's his narrow focus, being consistent at Manly."

The big second-rower played 24 games for Manly last season, scoring 10 tries.

Olakau'atu debuted for the club in 2019, making 73 appearances throughout his career.

The 25-year-old has previously played two games for Tonga and has been discussed as a future NSW Blues player.

Reports in September had previously suggested Manly tabled a $5.6m deal until 2030, however it seems the Sea Eagles upped their offer to secure his signature.