Matt Burton’s future at Canterbury has been thrown into doubt with bombshell reports the Bulldogs could agree to release him early to join the Perth Bears as reported at the Wide World of Sports earlier today.
Burton is contracted at Belmore until the end of 2027, but suggestions have emerged that he may be allowed to depart before the final year of his deal, with the Bulldogs reportedly not opposed to considering the move.
If Burton did sign with the Bears it would see him become a marquee signing and a huge foundation for the club’s inaugural season, likely also helping recruitment with further players set to follow his signature.
Burton has family links out west and it has been reported that Burton could make the switch as part of a package deal alongside his brother-in-law Aston Warwick, who is currently playing in the NSW Cup and who Burton has previously stated a desire to play with.
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The Bears have also been linked with other Bulldogs players, including halfback Toby Sexton, as they begin to assemble a competitive roster.
Burton has been a central figure in Canterbury’s rebuild since arriving in 2022 from the Panthers and remains one of the club’s most important players, so news that they could potentially entertain an early release is startling.
Burton is currently playing five-eighth for the Bulldogs but has also proven to be just as adept at centre, where he has represented at State of Origin level.
His kicking game is also regarded as one of the most feared in the NRL, with his towering torpedo bombs even catching the attention of America's NFL.
With the Bulldogs finally reaching a level of consistency and form that has seen them rise into legitimate NRL contention, it is remarkable that an early release for a player of Burton’s calibre would even being considered.
Securing the Bulldogs’ playmaker would be a huge coup for the Perth franchise, giving them an immediate superstar to lead their team and providing one of the strongest building blocks possible as they assemble a competitive roster in their inaugural years.
At the same time, his potential release would mark a significant turning point for Canterbury, reshaping their squad and leaving a notable gap to fill that could prove difficult.