Manly Sea Eagles forward puts Super League and NRL clubs on red alert with future admission
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - MAY 23: Martin Taupau of the Sea Eagles smiles during the round eleven NRL match between the Parramatta Eels and Manly Sea Eagles at Bankwest Stadium on May 23, 2021 in Sydney, Australia. Photo by Speed Media/Icon Sportswire RUGBY: MAY 23 NRL Rd 11 - Eels v Sea Eagles Icon2105230788
Could a Manly Sea Eagles forward be heading to Super League?
That perhaps seems the likeliest destination for one of the club’s main enforcers after almost a year of speculation.
Marty Taupau has become one of the NRL’s most consistent forwards in recent years, but has regularly been linked with a move away.
The New Zealand international began his career at the Canterbury Bulldogs, debuting in 2010.
After 21 appearances in four seasons, Taupau made the switch to the Wests Tigers where he became a regular, registering 45 appearances over a period of two years.
It took a move to Manly ahead of the 2016 NRL season to firmly put Taupau on the map, with almost 150 appearances later in six seasons.
It can hardly be said that Taupau is running out of steam either, with the 31-year-old playing 26 games for Manly in the 2021 NRL season including the club’s preliminary final loss against South Sydney.
He had previously been linked with a move away last year, but Manly kept hold of the barnstorming forward.
But, now the hulking prop has spoken out about his future.
“I haven’t spoken to anyone,” Taupau told Fox Sports.
“At this time of year as a player I am focusing on the pre-season and preparing myself for the year.
“But in terms of a new contract I haven’t spoken to anyone.
“It would be great if there was any interest. If there is any interest that you would know would you pass on a message?”