Eels and Storm in last minute talks before courts

Apparently the case today has been delayed due to Parramatta and Melbourne engaging in deep talks to get a deal done. Negotiations had ran overnight. What is hilarious is people on social media believe Parramatta know they will lose so are making a deal. Ummmm no this is the NRL not wanting to be involved and not wanting their stuff leaked so the heavies are on Melbourne to get something done.

The rumour at the moment is it could be a three way trade. Jesse Ramien's name has been floating around as Cronulla want cap space in order to front load contracts for next year. One rumour suggested Melbourne would get both Lomax and Ramien, therefore Melbourne would be more open to releasing a player if they get two. Now could that be for example Howarth since Ramien will be one Centre? Maybe but it seems a deal could be struck at the 11th hour.

A separate report also suggests the call from Parra for Lomax not to play Round 1 could still be on table.

https://www.espn.com.au/nrl/story/_/id/48077730/zac-lomax-negotiations-last-minute-effort-escape-parramatta-eels-contract

"Negotiations are a good thing, it's better to avoid a court imposed ruling if possible. There's nothing to suggest we aren't going to stand our ground and get what we want."

"Considering the straight bat the Eels have played so far in this saga, I'd be amazed if we wouldn't just turn around and use that as another example of how the NRL are trying to manipulate their preferred outcome in bad faith."

"Because people dont understand how court works. Plus it is also possible some in the media who do understand (or have some idea) how court works will have an agenda and frame it as if we folded to sell papers."

Replies

- - - - EA > Eli Stephens March 2, 2026 at 4:43pm
        
        We don't need Blore. Williams is a better edge than middle. Also a better edge than Blore.
        
        Hugh > Coryn Hughes March 2, 2026 at 3:44pm
        
        i couldnt imagine them letting go blore, given katoa's injury.
        
        Warbrick is off contract end of this year right?
      - LB > Eli Stephens March 2, 2026 at 3:53pm
        
        Nah Katoa hurt, they can't decide between Chan and Lasati for other spot.
        
        It could be a back either Warbrick or Howarth since they might get Ramien.
        
        Hugh > LB March 2, 2026 at 3:56pm
        
        both in line for upgrades and they will need some flexibility to cover Nick Meaneys departure as well. could be viewed that Howarth stays.
        
        LB > Hugh March 2, 2026 at 4:09pm
        
        With Ramien and Lomax there is your centre pairing. Not sure why Howarth would stay unless he is going to an edge.
        
        Warbrick won't be extending.
        
        DYNASTY.LOADING > LB March 2, 2026 at 4:16pm
        
        I think separate to all of this, Howarths best position is back row and it's a matter of time until he plays there full time.
        
        TolEllts > LB March 2, 2026 at 4:37pm
        
        Isn't Howarth signed with the Bears?
        
        LB > TolEllts March 2, 2026 at 4:54pm
        
        Thinking of Meaney.
      - Anguillidae > Eli Stephens March 2, 2026 at 3:59pm
        
        BLORE? Pass. I'd rather watch V'Landys and Abdo go down.
      - DYNASTY.LOADING > Eli Stephens March 2, 2026 at 4:21pm
        
        I agree here. We take him, two seasons on the edge, lock it down, move Williams in. Buy Barnett for two seasons to be the 1-2 punc with Williams forming a very strong combination.