The Roosters — and NRL by extension — are set to be dealt a massive blow with rising star Joseph Suaalii on the verge of signing a $1.6 million deal with Rugby Australia.
That is according to The Daily Telegraph, who broke the news of Suaalii’s expected exit on Friday afternoon, with the 19-year-old set to switch codes from 2025 onwards.
Danny Weidler of Nine News also reported on Friday that RA insiders had told him they are “close” to signing Suaalii for 2025, although added the deal is not “done” yet.
“They still fear a last minute play from Nick Politis,” he added.
The report from The Telegraph claimed that the chance to play in a historic series against the British & Irish Lions was a “key driver” for Suaalii in the decision.
The money being offered was also a factor given no NRL teams could match the cash being splashed by RA.
The length and terms of the…
