- Rising Apa Twidle will leave the Parramatta Eels at the end of 2026 after agreeing to a three-year deal with the new Perth Bears (joining in 2027).
- The deal is in a cooling-off period, but he’s expected to go ahead with it because the offer is significantly better.
- Twidle burst onto the scene with a standout debut (2 tries in 3 minutes), which attracted strong interest from multiple clubs.
- Parramatta reportedly only offered a low-value development contract (~$80k), while Perth provided better financial security and opportunity.
- A key factor: the Bears are offering him a chance to play in the halves, rather than being used as a utility/backline option.
- He becomes one of the early signings helping build the Bears’ inaugural squad under coach Mal Meninga.
Bottom line:
Parramatta unearthed a serious talent, but underpaid and under-positioned him—Perth stepped in with money, role clarity, and long-term security, and likely pinched him.
Replies
We can't keep everyone. Even if they blow up, we can't keep everyone.
We got Iongi and Hopgood from Penrith. Penrith at their pinnacle. They still let guys of that quality go.
We have plenty of outside backs and halves coming through. Even Papalii is maybe blocked here but his utility even at 9 makes him more valuable.
The on player at the moment that is a priority keep is Tuivati.
I do want MON sacked but holy if we lose Tuivita, Lorenzo, Fletcher, Petrus, Popo, Koina, Polley, Bell, Seuseu, Sorovi, Bloomfield, Talagi then I am going to flip.
I know that if you were to lose any of those names you'd be upset EA, much like i am with Apa.
Have you noticed Harley Walker and Kade Moujalli in Flegg lately.
I dont rate Moujalii that high. Walker could be a decent centre. Strong running game.
Is Lorenzo the real real ? How is his defence? What is a player he reminds you of?
yes Lorenzo is the real deal but like any young half, he has things to work on. He has been compared to a young Milford. Defensively he is fine. Can get exposed a bit but again he is young.
Fuck me we are comparing ourselves to Penrith now? A team coming off 4 premierships. No no you're right, we've been going soo good the last 3.5 seasons we couldn't possibly show a young talent a future and pathway at Parramatta
I guess we already have Iongi and Moses leaving 6 as his only option and we have favoured others like Talataina over him.
Time will tell if we made the right decision...
You put him on the wing like just about every other fullback coming into first grade and test his potential. Parra seem to get stuck on what position the junior plays rather than just getting them into the first grade team and trying them out. Look at the roosters. They have a half playing in the centres so they don't lose a talented player.
I think you'll find we do offer alternative positions but our juniors want their selected position NOW. E.g. Talagi.
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