Blaize Talagi Set to Join Penrith Panthers After Leaving Parramatta Eels

Blaize Talagi has announced that he will be leaving the Parramatta Eels to join the Penrith Panthers, marking a significant turn of events in his career.

The news comes from Parramatta’s CEO, Jim Sarantinos, who shared that the club had put together a strong offer for Talagi, clearly laying out a path for his future in football.

Despite the Eels’ efforts to keep him, Talagi decided to pursue other opportunities, which is a disappointment for the club, especially considering the chances and support they have provided him during his time there.

Talagi was being groomed to take over as the long-term fullback after Clint Gutherson, but it now looks like the talented 19-year-old will be making a move to Penrith.

Other clubs like St George Illawarra and Newcastle were also interested in Talagi, but they have been told that they are out of the running to sign him.

The potential signing of Talagi is expected to generate chatter about the future of Brian To’o at Penrith, especially since To’o’s management recently met with club officials to discuss his future.

To’o is under contract until the end of 2027, but with several teammates leaving Penrith this season, including Stephen Crichton and Spencer Leniu, it’s unclear what his next steps will be.

Talagi’s performance this season has been impressive, scoring nine tries in 14 games, and he has played in nearly every position in the backline, except for halfback.

With Talagi likely joining the Panthers, he could become a key player alongside Nathan Cleary, particularly as the team adjusts to the departure of Jarome Luai and others at the end of the season.

This recent development marks the Panthers’ second major signing for next year, following the release of Isaiah Papali’i from his contract with the Tigers.

As the situation unfolds, it’s clear that Talagi’s move will shake things up for both him and the Panthers moving forward.