The man supposedly behind the Sydney Roosters' bid for James Tedesco - Anthony Minichiello - says he won't pressure the NSW fullback into leaving NRL battlers the Wests Tigers.
The Roosters are considered favourites to poach Tedesco, with the Tigers sensationally giving him and captain Aaron Woods until Friday to decide whether they want to stay on next year.
Minichiello had been identified as the surprise broker of a Roosters deal, thanks to his close relationship with Tedesco.
Minichiello reportedly keeps in touch to share diet tips and started the ball rolling for a potential Roosters deal when Tedesco expressed an interest in the Tri-colours in a phone call.
Former Roosters No.1 Minichiello said he had enjoyed giving Tedesco advice but drew the line on telling the Tigers' danger man to sign with his former club.
"He's a good mate of mine," he told Fox Sports' NRL Tonight.
"We speak regularly. He wants to seek advice and wants to be a better player.
"I obviously give him advice but that call (on his future) is his call.
"It's up to him and his family whether he wants to leave or stay at the club - I am sure we will find out in 24 hours."
Minichiello said Tedesco had not indicated which way he would go on Friday.
"I am not sure where he is going to be," he said.
"I haven't spoken to him in the last couple of weeks and that is the honest truth.
"But I would like to see him here (Roosters)."
A tough decision awaits Tedesco, but Minichiello has applauded Tigers coach Ivan Cleary for demanding the Friday deadline after weeks of speculation.
"You can't coach a football team with this speculation going on in the media - it's like a circus," he said.
"Ivan has given them a deadline and good on him."
Share
