Storm hit-list to replace Bellamy revealed as legendary mentor’s shock call looms

Craig Bellamy is reportedly set to make a call on whether he will become the Titans’ head coach in 2027 in the coming days, with the Storm drawing up a short list to replace the legendary mentor.

According to Code Sports, Gold Coast powerbrokers have been secretly chasing Bellamy’s signature, with the 2026 season set to be his last at the Melbourne club.

The Titans reportedly expect to now in the coming days whether Bellamy will sign on for 2027, which would see Josh Hannay become an assistant after a single season at the helm.

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Despite attempts from Storm owner Matt Tripp to extend Bellamy’s contract during a meeting on Wednesday, both parties reportedly recognise his tenure will come to an end.

Therefore, Melbourne bosses have reportedly drafted a coaching hit-list, with current Queensland coach and club legend Billy Slater named as the club’s No.1 target.

Eels head coach Jason Ryles and Roosters assistant Matt King are also reportedly being considered, and both played for the Storm.

Ryles was previously lined up to replace Bellamy, but instead departed for Parramatta and he enjoyed a strong back-end of his debut campaign as a head coach, with three years remaining on his current contract.

King, meanwhile, has spent time alongside Storm head of football Frank Ponissi, with both involved in NSW Blues camps.

Meanwhile, Hannay is facing a nervous wait with Bellamy’s decision set to be finalised imminently.

Hannay has been on a holiday and is yet to being his tenure at the Titans, having signed a three-year deal to replace Des Hasler in August.

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A clause in his contract could see him demoted to assistant should Bellamy arrive, and Titans chief executive Steve Mitchell remained tight-lipped regarding the situation in a statement.

“We are very excited to have Josh Hannay joining us as our head coach from 2026,” Mitchell told AAP.

“All employee contractual arrangements remain strictly confidential, and as such, we will not be making public comment.

“We acknowledge Craig’s exceptional coaching credentials and reputation within the game and like many NRL clubs, would welcome him and his family in any capacity.”

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