Broncos bounced in bid for Green

NORTH Queensland have upped the ante in the battle for Paul Green’s signature, with the Cowboys tabling a multimilliondollar deal to scupper a Broncos poaching bid.

The Broncos are circling the off-contract Green as part of their succession plan to replace Brisbane coach Wayne Bennett.

But Cowboys chairman Laurence Lancini said he was confident the mentor would remain in Townsville beyond this season.

It is understood Green is worth $1 million a season in the coaching market, with his value soaring after steering the Cowboys to their maiden title win in 2015.

Green’s management last night said it was unlikely he would ink a new deal before the Round 1 clash on March 9.

But Lancini is determined to get his man, with the Cowboys boss outlining plans to secure Green to a three or four-year deal worth at least $2.5 million.

With Bennett off contract at the Broncos next year, the Cowboys have no interest in giving Green only a 12-month extension.

“We’re confident Paul will be staying. There won’t be a problem,” Lancini said.