Warriors CEO Cameron George has clarified Shaun Johnson's contract situation, following a report earlier today saying that the club were prepared to let the superstar go.
With Johnson's current deal to expire at the end of the 2019 season, the star halfback can begin negotiations with another interested NRL side from November 1.
The 28-year old is the highest paid player in the club's history, as well as being the Warriors' all-time leading points scorer.
Speaking to 1 NEWS this afternoon, George explained what was going on in regards to Johnson's future with the Warriors.
"Shaun's contract expires at the end of 2019," he began.
"He can obviously talk to other clubs post November 1, 2018 - that's the position that both parties are in."
However, while speculation is rife that Johnson's time with the Warriors could be up, George was happy to say that there is a future for the halfback at Mt Smart - provided he fits into the desired direction.
"We want to ensure that anyone that we sign is the right person for our club firstly," he said.
"We're not just willy-nilly signing any player, any staff member. We're ensuring that their attributes are the right ones to carry us forward.
"Shaun's included in that.
"Shaun's a highly valued member of our squad, and he carries a lot of PR - that's why there's some headlines floating around there at the moment.
"We'll do what's right for the club and our fans first and foremost."
George also moved to allay any fan's fears that Johnson is on the way out, saying that he remains in their plans.
"Shaun's been a great club man for many, many years - and he's still in the mix for the future.
"We're only sitting here talking because there's a November 1 deadline.
"If other clubs put interest in front of him, I'm sure Shaun will attract plenty of it. But we're not going to be hurried up by that."
Johnson is currently away on tour with the Kiwis in England.
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