The NRL rumour mill is in overdrive this week, and it’s delivering blockbuster headlines across the board. From Tino Fa’asuamaleaui setting off a $1.5 million tug-of-war, to Parramatta’s first casualty of the Jonah Pezet saga, and a Dragons playmaker packing his bags — it’s all happening as the 2025 pre-season edges closer.
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Tino Fa’asuamaleaui sparks $1.5 million frenzy
The Gold Coast Titans captain has triggered a contract clause that could reshape the NRL’s balance of power. Tino Fa’asuamaleaui, the heart and soul of the Titans, is now officially on the open market after electing to test his value following the club’s disappointing 2024 campaign.
The 24-year-old Queensland and Kangaroos star is expected to attract monster offers, with rival clubs circling like sharks. Early whispers suggest the Brisbane Broncos, Canterbury Bulldogs, and even the Sydney Roosters have already made discreet inquiries.
Tino’s current deal is worth close to $1 million a season, but insiders believe his next contract could smash the $1.5 million mark — making him one of the richest forwards in NRL history. The Titans are desperate to keep him, but with big clubs ready to splash the cash, this could turn into one of the most heated bidding wars of the decade.
As one insider put it: “Every club in the comp wants a player like Tino — a captain, a leader, and an enforcer. The question is: who can afford him?”
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Eels feel the Pezet pinch
Meanwhile, the fallout from Jonah Pezet’s bizarre dual-signing saga has claimed its first Parramatta victim. Fringe halfback Jake Arthur has reportedly been told he won’t be offered a new deal for 2026, as the Eels prepare to welcome Pezet into their system.
Arthur, who has battled to cement a regular first-grade spot, is now expected to explore opportunities elsewhere — with the Raiders and Knights believed to be interested. The Pezet deal has caused chaos behind the scenes, especially with the young playmaker also heavily linked to the Broncos. Parramatta coach Jason Ryles is said to be fuming at the confusion but remains confident Pezet will officially commit to the blue and gold in the coming weeks.
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Dragons playmaker lands new home
Over at the Dragons, one of the club’s most promising but underused halves, Jayden Sullivan, is reportedly on the move. After months of uncertainty, Sullivan has signed a two-year deal with the Wests Tigers, where he’s expected to partner Lachie Galvin in a new-look spine for 2026.
The Dragons, keen to free up salary cap space, have reluctantly let him go. New coach Shane Flanagan is said to be chasing an experienced utility to replace him, with rumours linking the club to Manly’s Kaeo Weekes.
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The bottom line
As contract season heats up, the NRL is living up to its reputation as the most unpredictable league in Australia. Tino Fa’asuamaleaui’s decision could redefine the Titans’ future, the Eels are juggling a messy halfback saga, and the Dragons are reshaping their roster yet again.
Expect more twists, backflips, and bombshells in the coming weeks — because in rugby league, the whispers never stop. 💥
