SAINTS have offered Tony Puletua a two year deal - but there are fears that the 31-year-old test forward may be holding out for a bigger offer from other clubs.

Saints chairman Eamonn McManus confirmed that he has been in negotiations with Puletua and his agent for some time.

And the drawn out nature of those talks has led to fears that the in form former Kiwi international could become the target for rival Super League clubs - such as Warrington.

McManus said: “Tony's father was ill before Christmas and we willingly gave him compassionate leave and agreed to give him a little time when he arrived back to see whether he wished to remain in England and with the Saints, given his family situation.

“We initially suggested a year by year arrangement to give him flexibility with his family back home but were delighted when he asked for two years as this showed commitment from him.

“We did not hesitate to make him a very good two year offer as soon as he asked and think that we have met all his requests.

“Tony has been great for the club and we hold him in very high esteem both as a person and as a player, as do the fans.”

With James Graham still likely to try his hand in the NRL at the end of the season, Saints will not wish to be adding another prop to their shopping list for the key 2012 season at the new stadium.

But McManus was concerned that the negotiations were taking longer than he would have thought necessary but would continue to try to persuade the player.

Puletua said there were things he needed to discuss with his family - but has not ruled out staying at Saints.

He said: “Hopefully we can come to a final decision soon.

“It has been great being part of such a great club and an honour. So hopefully everything gets taken care of away from the field and I can still be a part of that.”

Under Super League anti tampering regulations no other club can enter into negotiations with Puletua until September.