LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Viliami Fifita, a departing forward from the St George Illawarra Dragons, is reportedly set to join the Manly Sea Eagles for the 2026 season.
The 24-year-old prop began his career within the Sea Eagles' pathways system but moved to the Dragons in mid-2023 as part of a player swap deal that involved the now-retired former Origin player Aaron Woods.
During his time at the Dragons, Fifita's performance fell short of expectations for a player with such talent; he managed to appear in only four NRL games over two and a half seasons at the club.
His appearances included two games in 2024 and another two in 2025, but he was eventually listed among the departing players at the end of 2025.
Currently without a contract for the upcoming season, it has been reported by The Sydney Morning Herald that Fifita is poised to return to his roots, with the Sea Eagles looking to add him to their roster for 2026.
Fifita brings valuable experience at the reserve grade level, which will bolster Manly's pack-a critical area where the club needs additional players.
Sources indicate that Manly has multiple signings in the pipeline, with six roster spots still available for 2026 after it was confirmed that the currently injured utility Aaron Schoupp will continue with the team into the new season.