This is how you play it Elmer.
You don't offer any money. Do not mention a figure - just let him know we are interested if he wants to make a huge contribution on the field.
Mention all the positives - playing with Gal, Smithy and Gards, loved by the fans and being part of the first Shark premiers, etc.
Then send him away to think if he really wants to play here.
IF he comes back make him an offer and give him a strict deadline to sign.
Otherwise we will be used AGAIN to drive someone's price up.
We will off overs as usual and he will take it straight to Tinkler or Gould we will be left hanging again.
Take a stand mega.