LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
The Canterbury Bulldogs are undergoing a mid-season overhaul following the signing of Lachie Galvin from the Tigers, which has prompted them to offer another player, Zyon Maiu'u, to rival NRL clubs.
Just four months after joining the Bulldogs on a two-year deal, the 21-year-old prop is reportedly surplus to requirements, as the club seeks to manage its salary cap situation.
Maiu'u, who debuted with the Warriors last season and was initially under contract until the end of 2026, requested an early release after seeking more first-grade opportunities.
At the announcement of his signing earlier this year, the Bulldogs expressed their excitement, stating, "The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs are excited to announce the signing of boom youngster Zyon Maiu'u on a two-year deal, effective immediately." However, the landscape has changed significantly since then.
The recent acquisition of Galvin, following his release from the Tigers, has necessitated player offloading.
Previously, the Bulldogs released Kurtis Morrin, who has since joined the Gold Coast Titans for two seasons.
Coach Cameron Ciraldo's strategic thinking has led the Bulldogs to seek alternatives for Maiu'u, who has had limited chances to make an impact in the first-grade squad.
The Bulldogs are also actively boosting their roster, having secured emerging Dragons forward Finau Latu, who had originally signed a three-year deal for the following season but was permitted to join before the June 30 deadline.
This move added to the Bulldogs' progression in their premiership aspirations, despite Dragons coach Shane Flanagan's earlier frustrations regarding the retention of Latu.
In summary, Zyon Maiu'u is now a player in limbo as the Bulldogs navigate their roster adjustments and salary cap challenges, emphasizing the fast-paced dynamics of player movement within the NRL.