Cronulla star Valentine Holmes is continuing to weigh up his future, with the Sharks set to try to get their fullback to re-sign on a long-term deal.
Holmes is contracted for the 2019 season, although the Sharks want him to pen a four-year extension according to smh.com.au. The lure of returning home remains the Sharks' biggest roadblock, with the Cowboys itching to bring the 23-year-old back to north Queensland.
Holmes spoke to Fairfax Media about whether 2019 would be his last in the blue and white, and he still was unsure about his playing future.
"I'm not too sure," Holmes said.
"It's my home now, and I've still got next year.''
"I've got a while to make my decision. It's a big life decision I have to make. I have to think hard with my family and friends and make the right decision.
"I have a partner and family I need to worry about. Obviously, you play for your family. We'll see how we go.''
Cronulla coach Shane Flanagan has been amazed by Holmes' transition to fullback, and believes he's been one of the NRL's best in 2018.
Flanagan understands the lure of home for one of the game's most prolific try scorers, although hopes Holmes can understand the role Cronulla have played in his career.
"If he decides to go home to his family, life will go on,'' Flanagan added.
"The family part is hard, but obviously we gave him his opportunity. He's won a grand final and he's an integral part of our team and club. We'd like to think that holds a bit of weight.
"We've offered him a long-term deal, and he's probably got an opportunity to earn more money in Sydney.
"He had a great finish, and he had a long finish. He was fantastic since Origin, and that's a fair time to be up.
"I was having a look at some stats they put up on Friday night comparing him to Billy [Slater] and he's had a fantastic year in relation to try scoring and contributions to the team.
"He's a different type of player to Billy, but he's had a fantastic year. He'll probably get the players' player award.''
The Sharks have only six weeks to themselves to offer Holmes an extension, before North Queensland can put forward a contract to the Origin star on November 1.