These signings will play a crucial role in determining which teams can rise to the top.
As the 2024 NRL season approaches, the player market has been bustling with high-profile signings, new contracts,
and player movements that promise to shake up the competition. The NRL has always been a hotbed for player
movements, and this year is no exception. Let’s take a closer look at some of the biggest signings, re-signings, and
transfers that will have a significant impact on the upcoming season.
Flanagan Signs New Deal with Bulldogs.
One of the most significant pieces of news during this NRL off-season is the re-signing of Lachlan Flanagan with the
Canterbury Bulldogs. Flanagan has been a key figure in the Bulldogs’ recent revival under coach Cameron Ciraldo,
and his new deal ensures that the halfback remains at the club for the long term. Flanagan, who has shown promise
since joining the Bulldogs from the Sydney Roosters, has become a key playmaker for the team. The new deal
solidifies his position as one of the cornerstones of the club’s future.
His re-signing provides the Bulldogs with much-needed stability in the halves and will help the team build
momentum into the 2024 season. Flanagan’s ability to control the tempo of the game, coupled with his sharp kicking
game, makes him an integral part of the Bulldogs’ plans. The move signals the club’s confidence in Flanagan’s growth
and their belief that he can lead the team into a more competitive future.
Sullivan Joins South Sydney Rabbitohs.
Another exciting move in the off-season saw young halfback Moses Mbye depart the Dragons for the South Sydney
Rabbitohs. The 2024 season will be a fresh start for the talented playmaker, as he joins the Rabbitohs in a significant
transfer that could shake up the balance in the NRL. Sullivan has long been considered one of the brightest young
talents in the game, and his arrival at Souths adds another layer to the Rabbitohs’ already formidable roster.
Sullivan’s skill set is highly regarded, with his agility and vision standing out in his time with the Dragons. Souths
will now look to harness his abilities, especially alongside their star players like Cody Walker and Damien Cook. His
partnership with Walker could give the Rabbitohs one of the most dynamic and dangerous halves combinations in
the NRL. As South Sydney gears up for another strong campaign, Sullivan’s arrival adds to their ever-growing depth.
Big Moves for the Warriors.
The New Zealand Warriors have also made some notable moves in the player market. They secured a major coup by
signing experienced prop forward James Fisher-Harris from the Penrith Panthers. Fisher-Harris has been a stalwart
for the Panthers over the past few seasons, helping them to multiple premierships. His decision to join the Warriors
adds significant firepower to their forward pack and gives them a potent edge in the middle of the field. The Warriors
are hoping that Fisher-Harris’ leadership and toughness will inspire their younger forwards to raise their level of
play.
Additionally, the Warriors have confirmed the signing of young center Joseph Manu from the Sydney Roosters.
Manu, known for his versatility and attacking flair, will add extra strike to the Warriors’ backline and provide coach
Andrew Webster with more options across the field. The Warriors’ recruitment drive in the off-season highlights
their desire to build a side that is ready to challenge for a top-four finish in 2024.
Knights Make Bold Moves in the Market.
The Newcastle Knights have been busy in the market this off-season, making a series of moves aimed at improving
their roster for the upcoming season. The Knights secured the signature of experienced hooker Apisai Koroisau from
the Wests Tigers, giving them a much-needed upgrade in the hooking role. Koroisau’s ability to control the ruck and
link the forwards with the backs will be a significant boost for the Knights’ attack.
Moreover, the club has added some depth in the backs, signing young outside back Tino Fa’asuamaleaui from the
Melbourne Storm. The dynamic Fa’asuamaleaui has shown glimpses of his potential over the past few seasons and
will be looking to prove himself as one of the premier outside backs in the competition. His arrival at the Knights
gives them more options in attack, particularly in broken play, where he has shown a knack for creating try-scoring
opportunities.
Other Key Signings.
Across the league, there have been several other notable moves, including the signings of experienced forwards and
rising stars. The Sydney Roosters have added depth to their squad by signing promising forward Viliame Kikau from
the Bulldogs. Kikau brings a strong physical presence and a flair for attacking football, which will complement the
Roosters’ style of play.
Similarly, the Melbourne Storm has continued to bolster their roster with key signings, adding speedster Xavier
Coates from the Broncos to their backline. Coates’ pace and finishing ability are expected to make an immediate
impact at the Storm, who are aiming to maintain their place among the NRL’s elite teams.
As teams continue to finalize their rosters, the NRL’s player market remains as competitive as ever. With the 2024
season around the corner, these signings will play a crucial role in determining which teams can rise to the top and
which players will shine in what promises to be an exciting year of rugby league action.
