Parramatta ramp up pursuit of Kangaroos star after Zac Lomax's immediate exit from NRL

The Eels suddenly have about $2 million to play with.

Sam Goodwin, Sports Editor

Updated Mon 17 November 2025 at 2:11 pm AEDT

The Parramatta Eels are expected to ramp up their push to sign Keaon Koloamatangi from the Rabbitohs now that Zac Lomax has made an immediate departure from the NRL. The Eels announced on Sunday night that Lomax was granted an immediate release with three years left on his contract "to pursue opportunities outside the NRL".

The NSW and Australia winger has been heavily linked to rebel rugby union competition R360. On Monday, The Daily Telegraph reported that Parramatta's bid to sign Koloamatangi has been "strengthened" by Lomax's exit.

Koloamatangi made his debut for Australia in the recent Ashes series, coming off the bench in all three Tests against England. The 27-year-old forward also played State of Origin for NSW in 2023 and previously played 10 Tests for Tonga before switching his allegiance to Australia.

Koloamatangi was a revelation for the Rabbitohs in 2025, and was easily their best player in a season plagued by multiple injuries to their stars. He's only under contract until the end of 2026, making him free to speak to rival clubs about a deal for 2027.

"I have to agree here with Bourbon; this guy has had a good season but I am not throwing the bank at him tbh. Look we did well this year with who played and you can see also who left and who was also injured."

"I think you are misreading the comment. Pezet was signed long before lomax was released, i think he meant after lomax was released it freed up money that may have been used for a longer deal for pezet but it came too late."

Replies

Parra_Greg December 9, 2025 at 5:37pm

Close the deal Parra at least one ffs......honestly we have the cash ....all this AI best roster and top 4 team for happiest players ....I say bullshit....we recruit a gun rep middle forward then Ill believe the JR story and the team hype thats still around .....farrrrrrk
- Randy Handlinger > Parra_Greg December 9, 2025 at 6:25pm
  
  Margo Kneel really needs to work on his blowjobs... he'll get there one day
BEM December 9, 2025 at 5:55pm

They are saving the money for their usual Mad Monday celebrations.
TolEllts December 9, 2025 at 6:05pm

No faith that we can sign him as long as we have MON and whoever are in the negotiating table.
Joel K December 9, 2025 at 7:16pm

Sign Richo as a GM. Would actually get shit done