Jarome Luai granted early Wests Tigers exit, Parramatta Eels consider 2027 move
Luai’s Early Departure from Wests Tigers
Jarome Luai, the prominent five-eighth for the Wests Tigers, has reportedly been granted permission to depart the club at the conclusion of the current season. This development comes despite him having one year remaining on his existing contract. The decision allows the Tigers to free up salary cap space, with Luai being the highest-earning player on approximately $1.2 million for the upcoming season. His long-term future is already set with the PNG Chiefs, an incoming franchise he is contracted to join in 2028.
The Tigers reportedly met with Luai a week ago to inform him he was free to explore other options. Concerns regarding Luai’s recent performance and the potential for him to promote the PNG Chiefs while still with the Tigers next season are cited as factors in the club’s decision. The Tigers are prepared to contribute between $200,000 and $300,000 towards facilitating Luai’s move to another club.
Following the news, Luai posted a cryptic message on Instagram, stating, “Gods plan not mine,” accompanied by Rod Wave’s song “Moving On.” This early departure means Luai will need to secure a new club for a single season before his planned move to Port Moresby with the PNG Chiefs.
Potential Destinations and Team Impact
The Parramatta Eels have emerged as a leading contender for Luai’s services for the 2027 season. Reports suggest that contract discussions between playmaker Ronald Volkman and the Eels have concluded without an agreement, potentially paving the way for Luai. The Eels have salary cap flexibility and a need for a halfback to partner with captain Mitchell Moses. Moses and Luai previously played together in the NSW halves during the 2024 State of Origin decider, contributing to a series victory.
Eels coach Jason Ryles acknowledged interest in quality players like Luai, stating the club would need to gather more information. The incoming Perth Bears have also indicated they would consider pursuing Luai, particularly given their need for a marquee player ahead of their entry into the competition next season. However, some reports suggest a deal with the Eels may already be in advanced stages.
For the Wests Tigers, Luai’s departure is seen by some as an admission that the $1.2 million experiment has not yielded the desired results. The club’s form has declined since Luai signed with the PNG Chiefs, with a record of 2-6 in the nine weeks following that announcement. While injuries to other key players have played a role, there has also been a reported dip in Luai’s own form.
Tigers’ Future Playmaking and Current Struggles
The Tigers are looking to recalibrate their playmaking options. They have halfback Adam Doueihi signed until the end of the 2029 season, with Jock Madden also contracted for next season. Additionally, new recruit Jake Averillo is set to join the club on a long-term deal, providing further depth in the halves. The club is also keen to secure Latu Fainu long-term, viewing him as a potential replacement for Luai in the halves and aiming to provide him with a clear pathway to first grade.
The team’s recent performance has drawn criticism. After a 24-10 loss to the Dragons, who are at the bottom of the ladder, one analyst suggested that only the performances of Adam Doueihi and Jahream Bula prevented a worse scoreline. The Tigers, who were once considered a top-four contender earlier in the season, are currently in 12th position and four points outside the top eight. They are scheduled to play the Warriors on Friday night.
Despite the team’s struggles, fullback Jahream Bula, who recommitted to the club long-term in May, expressed belief that one confidence-boosting victory could turn their season around. Luai himself is expected to return to the team for the match against the Warriors after being named to play following delayed concussion symptoms.
The decision for Luai’s early exit was reportedly driven by coach Benji Marshall, leading to suggestions of a strained relationship between the two. The Tigers hope to retain both Latu Fainu and his brother Samuela Fainu, who is also without a deal beyond 2027, and are expected to intensify re-signing talks before November 1.
Luai initially signed a five-year deal with the Tigers at the end of 2024, which included several exit clauses.
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Source: nine.com.au
