One of the game’s most impressive young forwards could be on the move again, with Isaiah Papali’i reportedly heading towards the exit door at Parramatta.
The Sydney Morning Herald is reporting that Papali’i has turned down an extension from the Eels, with the Wests Tigers waiting in the wings.
Papali’i would be a huge statement signing for the new regime at Concord, with new director football Tim Sheens and new recruitment manager Warren McDonnell eyeing improvements to the squad.
The Tigers are desperate for some physicality up front, and Papali’i would provide that in spades.
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The 23-year-old emerged as one of the signings of the year in 2021, playing both in the middle and on the edge for Brad Arthur’s men, to great effect.
Parramatta are reportedly refusing to budge on a contract offer of $425,000 per season, which does seem like unders given the young forward’s recent performances.
Papali’i could be in line for a 25 per cent pay increase if he joins the Tigers.
The relatively low offer from Parramatta could be explained by the sheer amount of talent they have coming off their books in 2023.
As well as Papali’i, stars such as Clint Gutherson, Reed Mahoney and Junior Paulo will all be off-contract.
Prop Reagan Campbell-Gillard has already told the Eels he will not be picking up his option for that year, as he yes a move to be a part of Wayne Bennett’s squad at the Dolphins.
“We will go to the open market and clubs will want to speak to us come November 1, which brings a second Brisbane team into the equation,” his manager Mark Stewart said.
“He would certainly entertain being the face of a new Brisbane franchise.”
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