LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
A rival NRL outfit is rumored to be in discussions with one of the Canterbury Bulldogs' rising stars as they embark on a squad overhaul.
According to reports from zerotackle.com, NSW Blues U19s representative, Joash Papalii, is eyeing a potential move to a new team in pursuit of securing a regular spot in the tough NRL competition and making his mark in first-grade footy.
Currently under contract with the Bulldogs until the end of the 2025 NRL season on a development deal, Papalii has slipped down the depth chart at the club, finding himself behind Connor Tracey and Blake Taaffe for the fullback position.
Despite this, he has been a consistent performer in the NSW Cup, featuring in 20 matches, notching up three tries, seven line-breaks, 39 tackle busts, and an average of 113 running meters per game, along with providing 15 try assists.
Eager to crack into the NRL scene sooner rather than later, Papalii is contemplating a potential move to the Parramatta Eels to challenge Isaiah Iongi for the coveted No.1 spot, as reported by The Sydney Morning Herald.
Time will tell if Papalii can make a successful transition to a new club and become a force to be reckoned with in the rugby league realm.