According to reports Down Under, a number of NRL clubs are ‘set to circle’ for an off-contract Super League star.
We’ve already had the exit of one Super League star to the NRL confirmed with the news that off-contract St Helens man Morgan Knowles will link up with the Dolphins in 2026, however, there’s sure to be plenty more.
One of those who could make the switch to the NRL is actually a former Dolphins forward with Catalans Dragons’ Tevita Pangai Junior catching the eye of several NRL clubs, according to reports in Australia.
Pangai Junior played nine games for the Dolphins in 2024 as he joined them following his return to the sport after having ‘retired’ from rugby league to take up boxing.
Despite that decision to call time on his playing days, the pop was back with in the NRL by June but just one month in his move to Catalans was confirmed for 2025.
NRL clubs ‘set to circle’ for off-contract Super League star
Credit: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
Pangai Junior signed a one-year deal with the Dragons who signed a whole host of NRL stars this off-season, which is partly why their slow start has been such a surprise.
As well as the enforcing prop they recruited Luke Keary, Nick Cotric and Elliott Whitehead as well as Super League stars Tommy Makinson and Oliver Partington.
All bar Makinson played on Saturday as Catalans defeated Castleford Tigers with Pangai Junior getting himself a try which has only furthered the NRL attention he has been receiving.
According to Fox Sports in Australia, ‘NRL clubs are set to circle’ for the 29-year-old with his performance against Cas the latest in a string of solid personal displays, despite the club’s poor results.
After only signing a one-year deal, it means he is available for 2026 and Fox noted that, stating: “Pangai Junior signed a one-year deal with Catalans and if he continues this form, he’ll be firmly on the radar of NRL teams for 2026 and beyond.”
They also had high praise for Nick Cotric who made 15 tackle busts on just 18 carries with well over 200 metres made, however, the winger is contracted until the end of 2027 meaning a move for him is far less likely.
Pangai Junior is one of 14 Catalans Dragons players without a deal beyond 2025 with other overseas players including Chris Satae, Tariq Sims and Bayley Sironen, whilst key players such as Theo Fages, Alrix Da Costa and Sam Tomkins are also on that list.
