Parramatta Eels are set to extend Prop Forward and Vice-Captain Junior Paulo past 2026. The 32 year old has played 263 NRL games, 208 for Parramatta. A new deal in 2027 can lead him to passing 300 NRL games.
I am surprised but also in hindsight it makes sense. Paulo had a great year, though statistically it was nowhere near his best, his influence was evident. His leadership and the resepect he garners is imperative to this squad. If it is one year he will 34 a the end of the deal. His is slowing down but it could be, if we add Keaon Koloamatangi especially, is move Paulo into that impact bench role. He can play a part in that role for sure.
I went into 2025 thinking like some, I understand why Paulo stayed over RCG, though he might give it a miss this year or next. But mid way through this year i saw that Paulo was playing well enough to keep going.
I just wonder how it all fits with the likes of Paulo, KK, Hopgood, De Belin, Tuivaiti, Walker and Moretti to fit them all in. Particularly since Ryles likes to play two Hookers, though also Ryles seemed wanting to get younger but have Paulo and de Belin possibly in 2027 being 33 and 36 in the middle.
Anyway i do not see him going anywhere, other than SL, so a deal should be able to be done reletively easily.
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Yep for 3500-400 grand a year be perfect
550 would be perfect, however you'd have to say Perth will offer 800k
If Parra table a deal of any significance, I can't see Junior leaving for Perth. He's well established in Sydney with family. It's one of the reasons he returned to the club.
Good to see parra making all the big market moves ahaa. Give him 350 tops. Otherwise bring in the young guns
$350k...good stuff. I can tell you are a man with his finger on the pulse /s
But we have people on here that think we paid 700k for TDS.....hate to go shopping with you lot!
It's about supply and demand. TDS is young and expected to get better every year, at a key spine position. There was huge demand for him. How many clubs would expect Paulo to still be NRL material at the end of 2026? He is 33 next year.
Yeah and travel was a reason for Lomax leaving.
This is good, esp at 1 or even 2 years. He has been playing well of late.
Good seeing you back Badger.
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