Super League clubs have taken advantage of the break in the Challenge Cup schedule to execute some mid-season transfer business in a busy week of activity. Now, a Samoan international forward has hit the market who could make a move to Super League.
Hull FC have been Super League’s busiest side this week. Alongside announcing the signing of Jordan Abdull for 2025, they also swooped in the sign Jed Cartwright, son on incoming coach John, and Treigh Stweard, who will link up with the Black and Whites for the rest of the 2024 season.
According to reports, Ed Chamberlain will also shortly join FC for 2025, with Liam Sutcliffe leaving for the Huddersfield Giants. On the other side of the city, Hull KR announced the capture of Tom Davies for 2025, from the Catalans Dragons.
Overnight, news broke that the Brisbane Broncos were willing to release one of their big names, who has been persistently linked with a move to Super League over the years. This latest update is sure to be of interest to a number of clubs.
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£180,000 forward’s release puts Super League clubs on high alert
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Martin Taupau has been one of the most consistent performers in the NRL over several years. Capped internationally by New Zealand and Samoa, he has been an NRL regular throughout his carer. Now according to a Fox League report, Taupau will be available for a move at the end of the season.
“Broncos enforcer Martin Taupau has reportedly been informed he’s surplus to requirements in 2025 as Red Hill powerbrokers negotiate a bumper contract extension for Reece Walsh.” Fox League reports.
“Taupau has been told he won’t be re-signed beyond his current deal which expires at the end of the 2024 season.
The 34-year-old signed with the Broncos during the 2023 season, going on to earn himself an extension for the following campaign.”
Before concluding, “It remains to be seen whether Taupau will find another deal at a rival NRL club, with the Broncos reportedly paying him around $350,000 per season.”
Taupau’s long-standing link to Leeds Rhinos
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Taupau has been persistently linked with a move to Super League throughout his career, most notably, with the Leeds Rhinos. Every time his contract has neared its end, the Rhinos have been mentioned as a potential destination. With the Rhinos pack lacking go forward at times, now could be the chance to finally make the move happen.
Taupau has had a long career in the NRL, playing 264 games, with 20 tries, across spells with the Canterbury Bulldogs, Wests Tigers, Manly Sea Eagles and latterly, the Brisbane Broncos. The 36 year-old made his debut in 2010, so woulds bring a wealth of experience to his new club.
He was in the Broncos’ squad for their opening games of the season, playing three times. However, he has fallen out of favour and slipped down the pecking order in recent weeks. He has not featured since their round three loss against the Penrith Panthers.
