Benji Marshall has revealed he has opened negotiations with rival NRL clubs in the wake of St George Illawarra's failed bid to lure Luke Keary to the joint-venture
Marshall said he wanted to stay in the NRL and his manager had begun talks about a move when his contact expires at the end of this year.
The writing appeared on the wall for the veteran playmaker when the Dragons were on the verge of signing premiership-winning half Keary from South Sydney, only to be outbid by the Sydney Rosters at the 11th hour.
The 31-year-old former New Zealand halfback told Fox Sports he was not considering finishing his career in the English Super League.
He is expected to sign a one-year contract extension with the Dragons but said he was exploring all his options.
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"My management has (talked to other clubs). I really want to stay in the NRL, so I can't see myself going overseas, I've pretty much ruled that out," Marshall said.
"I'm looking to stay. If it's not the Dragons, hopefully it's somewhere else."
After Marshall knocked back the Dragons' initial offer, reported to be $350,000, both parties have returned to the negotitaion table in recent months.
Marshall showed glimpses of his brilliant best with a starring performance in the Dragons' 30-18 win over the lowly Newcastle on Sunday, scoring a try and having a hand in three others.
