The Wests Tigers have reportedly granted star five-eighth Jarome Luai permission to depart the club at the end of the current season, a year earlier than his contract stipulated. This development follows a period of speculation regarding Luai’s future, particularly after his agreement to join the incoming PNG Chiefs in 2028. The Parramatta Eels have quickly emerged as a potential destination for Luai for the 2027 season, with reports suggesting advanced discussions.
Luai’s potential early exit comes despite signing a significant deal with the Tigers, which included various exit clauses. His decision to trigger one such clause earlier this year allowed him to become the first signing for the PNG Chiefs. The Tigers’ move to release Luai is understood to be driven by a desire to free up salary cap space and to provide a clear pathway for emerging talent within their halves roster, specifically mentioning Latu Fainu.
Tigers’ strategic move and financial implications
The Tigers’ decision to allow Luai to explore other options for 2027 is seen by some as a strategic recalibration of their playmaking stocks. With Luai being the club’s highest-earning player, his departure could free up substantial salary cap funds. Reports indicate the Tigers are prepared to contribute between $200,000 and $300,000 towards his existing contract to facilitate an early release.
This financial contribution would allow Luai to secure a deal elsewhere for the 2027 season before he moves to the PNG Chiefs. The club already has several halves contracted, including Adam Doueihi, Jock Madden, and new recruit Jake Averillo. Additionally, Latu Fainu is contracted until the end of 2027, and the club is reportedly keen to extend his stay, along with his brother Samuela Fainu.
The timing of Luai’s potential departure has also been linked to the Tigers’ recent performance. After an initial period of promise, the team’s form has declined, with a record of 2-6 since Luai’s deal with the Chiefs was announced. While injuries to key players have played a role, some observers have also noted a dip in Luai’s individual performance.
The Tigers’ coach, Benji Marshall, is understood to have been a driving force behind the decision to part ways with Luai a year early. Despite this, Tigers officials have stated there are no issues with Luai, who has a close relationship with Marshall, and he was named to play against the Warriors on Friday night after returning from concussion symptoms.
Eels’ interest and player movements
The Parramatta Eels appear to be a strong contender for Luai’s signature for the 2027 season. The Eels reportedly have salary cap space available and a need for a halfback to partner Mitchell Moses. The combination of Moses and Luai has proven effective at State of Origin level, where they helped steer NSW to a series win in 2024.
The Eels’ interest in Luai is further bolstered by the breakdown of contract talks with playmaker Ronald Volkman, who is expected to leave the club at the end of the season. This impending exit could create an opening for Luai. Eels coach Jason Ryles acknowledged interest in quality players but stated he needed more information regarding Luai’s situation.
A short-term deal with the Eels would allow their emerging halves, such as Joash Papalii, Lincoln Fletcher, and Lorenzo Talataina, an additional 12 months to develop before potentially stepping into an NRL role. The Perth Bears, an incoming team in need of a marquee player, have also indicated private interest in Luai, though reports suggest the Eels’ discussions are more advanced.
Luai himself posted a cryptic message on Instagram, stating, “Gods plan not mine,” shortly after the news broke of his potential early exit. Sources close to Luai suggest his preference is to avoid uprooting his young family for a single season, given their planned move to PNG for the 2028 season.
The Tigers’ current standing sees them in 12th position, four points outside the top eight, as they prepare to face the Warriors.
Source: foxsports.com.au
