LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
An NRL club has reportedly begun discussions with Junior Paulo, a NSW Blues and Samoan international, as he approaches the final year of his current contract.
Paulo is part of the Parramatta Eels' leadership group alongside Mitchell Moses, Jack Williams, and J'maine Hopgood. Although he may be nearing the latter stages of his playing career, the veteran front-rower has demonstrated that age has not diminished his performance.
Even though he has not participated in the State of Origin for the past two seasons, Paulo played every game in the recent campaign, averaging nearly 60 minutes on the field. His leadership in the forward pack was vital during each match, with impressive averages of 112 running metres, 28 tackles, and nearly two offloads per game.
Currently, Paulo's contract extends until the end of the 2026 NRL season. Brent Read from News Corp reported on James Graham's The Bye Round Podcast that the Parramatta Eels have initiated negotiations with Paulo regarding a new contract. This move aims to keep him away from rival clubs, as he is permitted to engage in discussions with other teams. It also ensures that he remains in the Eels' Blue and Gold colors for at least another year as the club strives to compete for a premiership once more.
"I started my career here, I'd like to finish here as well," Paulo shared with The Sydney Morning Herald.