Last-Minute Negotiations Continue as Lomax Pursues Eels Exit
Zac Lomax's NRL career hangs in the balance as last-minute negotiations are underway to facilitate his exit from Parramatta.
Just moments before a scheduled hearing at the NSW Supreme Court on Monday morning, both Lomax's and the Eels' legal teams requested additional time to continue discussions that had taken place overnight.
In November, Lomax departed the Eels aiming to join R360, but the launch of the new rugby union competition was postponed, derailing his plans.
His subsequent attempt to move to the NRL's powerhouse, Melbourne, for the 2026 season encountered obstacles when the Eels intervened.
The Eels assert that Lomax was aware he required their consent to terminate his $700,000-a-year contract and pursue opportunities with another NRL team.
A trial lasting seven days was scheduled to commence on Monday; however, lawyers from both parties approached Justice Francois Kunc, hoping to resolve the issue amicably outside of court.
"I always wish parties well in their attempts to resolve their differences," Justice Kunc remarked while permitting the adjournment.
In a strategic legal move, Parramatta aims to secure compensation for Lomax's transfer to Melbourne.
The Storm has submitted three offers to the Eels, the latest being a $300,000 proposal, which includes $211,000 in salary-cap relief.