The Manly Sea Eagles have reportedly secured the signature of Toni Mataele from the Parramatta Eels.
This marks the inaugural contract signing for the club under new coach Kieran Foran, as Mataele is set to join the Sea Eagles at the start of the upcoming season.
Mataele, a promising young middle forward now aged 23, made his NRL debut with the Eels last year but has faced challenges in securing regular minutes, featuring in only five games during rounds 7 to 13 this season.
With nearly 70 appearances in the NSW Cup, Mataele has opted to bring his skills to the Northern Beaches, as reported by News Corp.
Manly's pursuit of forward reinforcements is not surprising, particularly with Taniela Paseka leading the pack.
While Nathan Brown has delivered some solid performances, he finds himself on the wrong side of 30, and the future of Siosiua Taukeiaho remains uncertain following a severe injury this season.
This situation has prompted Manly to explore market options that fit within their budget, considering the strain on their salary cap due to several high-profile contracts.
Although Mataele may not step into a starting role immediately, he is determined to earn more playing time at the club where he developed his skills.
Previously a centre, he shared the field with talents like Tolutau Koula, Kaeo Weekes, and Gordon Chan Kum Tong during Manly's 2018 SG Ball premiership triumph over the Eels in the final.