ANGRY Cronulla officials last night claimed their club was being blackmailed over a late-night incident involving star forward Paul Gallen.
The Sharks revealed to The Daily Telegraph that a man contacted the club yesterday asking for $50,000 for the matter to be resolved.
In an exclusive interview, Gallen said the drama erupted only because he was protecting his little brother Steve. Police confirmed they were investigating an incident at the 2230 bar in Cronulla at 1.30am yesterday.
Alleged victim Cameron Davies told media outlets he was attacked by Gallen and wants the NSW forward charged. Davies denies he made any attempt to blackmail Cronulla.
"The club put it to me that they would be prepared to come to an agreement," Davies said.
Gallen said he would take legal action against Davies if cleared by a police investigation.
Cronulla chief executive Tony Zappia confirmed last night he took a call from a man claiming to be Davies who was seeking money to resolve the drama.
"A person contacted the club and said the matter would be resolved for $50,000," Zappia said.
Asked would his club pay it, Zappia said: "No. Nor will the player."
Davies said: "I spoke to the club this morning and the club put it to me that they would be prepared to come to an agreement. Obviously I said I would speak to my legal representatives and it is now between the club and my solicitor."
Asked if $50,000 was the correct sum, Davies said: "There was a sum of money discussed but I am not willing to say how much it was."
Gallen said Davies was initially involved in a drama with his brother Steve.
When Davies then allegedly badmouthed both Gallen brothers, Paul claims he stepped in and wrestled Davies to the ground.
"He was mouthing off at my little brother and then he started mouthing off at me," Gallen said.
"He turned around and grabbed me and threw a punch. I headlocked him and threw him to the ground.
"If I get charged then I get charged but I did nothing wrong expect stick up for Steve.
"I'd do the same thing next week. He's my little brother and you always help out."
Police confirmed that they were investigating a complaint.
"Security personnel from the restaurant separated the men and a 29-year-old Cronulla man has walked to Cronulla police station and reported the matter," a spokeswoman said.
"An ambulance was called for the man who was taken to Sutherland Hospital suffering facial injuries. Investigations are continuing."
