Wigan have said that they would not stand in Trent Barrett's way if he requested to be released from the final year of his contract.
Stand-off will stay put until the end of the current Super League season
Wigan have said that they would not stand in Trent Barrett's way if he requested to be released from the final year of his contract.
The stand-off is keen to return to home to Australia for family reasons, with his pregnant wife Kylie reported to be homesick.
Warriors chairman Ian Lenagan met with the player's agent last week and has now released a statement to put an end to the intense speculation.
He has confirmed that Barrett will not be leaving the JJB Stadium before the end of the current campaign but is not likely to complete the three-year deal he signed in 2006.
Uncertainty
"The outcome of the informal meeting is that Trent will definitely complete this season with Wigan - which was never at issue with Trent - but will almost certainly leave then and not complete his third contracted year," said Lenagan on the club's website.
"The uncertainty arises from the fact that we have not yet received a formal release request from Trent's agent, that discussions on compensation have not yet even started and that changes of mind can sometimes occur in these situations.
"In these particularly genuine circumstances, the Wigan club does not believe that forcing the player to honour his contract would be sensible, since an unsettled player can result in poor performances which are of no benefit to either party.
"The Wigan club also recognises and accepts Trent's stated enjoyment and satisfaction of playing for Wigan, for living in the area and his affection for the fans."
Wanted man
Barrett's former club St George Illawarra, who will be coached by Wayne Bennett next year, would appear to be in pole position to secure his signature.
The Canterbury Bulldogs have already revealed their interest, though whichever team the 30-year-old does decide to join his departure ahead of schedule will be a major blow to Wigan.
The ex-Kangaroo was a strong candidate to be crowned Man of Steel last year following a stunning debut season in England.
He helped the Cherry and Whites come within one win of the Grand Final and they also reached the semi-finals of the Carnegie Challenge Cup.
