Eels interested in Barnett

Replies

LB February 24, 2026 at 7:48pm

I reckon he goes to Brisbane. Madge connection, close to home as well.
- Clintorian > LB February 24, 2026 at 8:41pm
  
  Yeah, with Haas gone they will have the money.
- Muttman > LB February 24, 2026 at 9:22pm
  
  Home is Taree. Parra is closer.
  - LB > Muttman February 24, 2026 at 9:41pm
    
    Lol media reporting Titans, Knights and Broncos and all close to home 😂
Eels95 February 24, 2026 at 9:26pm

If we want him we'd be a pretty good chance. We have cash and are in the market for an experienced rep middle. 32 isn't ancient. He is the current starting prop for nsw. The acl is a risk but one worth taking I believe.

Broncos obviously have Broncos dollars and still are seen as in a premiership window. However, no Haas and Reynold's really brings them back to the pack. A big start to the year for us might be crucial in swaying Barnett.
- fake midget pseudoachondroplasia > Eels95 February 25, 2026 at 1:09am
  
  You say 32yo isn't ancient but he would turn 34 only 1 month into his first season if we sign him for 2027. Also plenty here said Koloamatangi wasn't worth a 5 year risk despite a 5yr contract seeing him through to age of 33 or 34.
  
  With the young forwards coming through who have speed, size, skill and endurance now, I don't think we need to get into a bidding war for him. If he falls in our lap like Beau Scott of course you would take him otherwise plenty of young forwards will emerge far cheaper with players like Williams and Hopgood to lead the pack after Jnr and JDB retire to bring through our young forwards.
fake midget pseudoachondroplasia February 25, 2026 at 12:47am

He was granted a release for his child illness so Newcastle would be favourites as that is where his family is closest. But they spent all their cap on Dylan Brown and Ponga.. Not sure the issue with Barnetts child but one would think Westmead hospital is the best hospital for a child but why woutd he wait a year then have to change hospitals and specialists. Only guessing but his child may have Autism or development disorder which needs more family support than medical support so it would come down to who offers best support which may include support for the family in some way or modified training schedule similar to what we offered Beau Scott to support his child when treated at Westmead Hospital.
Jack February 25, 2026 at 1:24am

Pass

of 2

"You say 32yo isn't ancient but he would turn 34 only 1 month into his first season if we sign him for 2027. Also plenty here said Koloamatangi wasn't worth a 5 year risk despite a 5yr contract seeing him through to age of 33 or 34.
With the young…"

"He was granted a release for his child illness so Newcastle would be favourites as that is where his family is closest. But they spent all their cap on Dylan Brown and Ponga.. Not sure the issue with Barnetts child but one would think Westmead…"

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