Broncos set to hand Taupau NRL lifeline after trumping two rival bids

Former Sea Eagles enforcer Marty Taupau has reportedly found his new home after his move to the Eels was rejected last year.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - AUGUST 05: Martin Taupau of the Sea Eagleswarms up before the round 21 NRL match between the Manly Sea Eagles and the Parramatta Eels at 4 Pines Park on August 05, 2022, in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)

Former Sea Eagles enforcer Marty Taupau is reportedly set to link with the Broncos for the 2023 season, who beat the Eels and Rabbitohs to his signature.

Triple M and Channel 9’s Ben Dobbin reported Taupau is set to join the Broncos effective immediately for the 2023 season.

Breaking- Strong mail Marty Taupau set to sign effectively immediately for 2023 with the @brisbanebroncos. Has agreed to terms after touring the club in the last 24 hours. @TripleM_NRL@9NewsQueensland@RushHourBris@wwos

— Ben Dobbin (@MyMateDobbo) January 20, 2023

The 32-year-old’s reported $800,000 contract with the Sea Eagles was not renewed and he has been on the lookout for a club ever since.

Taupau originally wanted to join the Eels ahead of the 2022 finals series, but the move was blocked by then Manly coach Des Hasler.

The Eels and the Rabbitohs were reportedly both in the running for Taupau’s signature this season, but the Broncos look to have trumped their bids.

Marty Taupau is set to join the Broncos on a one-year deal.

The deal is reportedly for just one season, but gives Taupau the chance to revive his NRL career after being let go by Manly.

The Broncos have Origin props Payne Haas and Thomas Flegler on their books, who are likely to start, but Taupau offers excellent experience and depth on the bench.

Turning 33 in February, Taupau has scored 20 tries in 222 games for the Bulldogs, Tigers and Manly since his debut in 2010.

Taupau has also played 24 Tests for the Kiwis and nine for Samoa, including the recent 2022 World Cup final campaign, which helped him keep fit since Manly failed to make the finals.

Originally published as Broncos set to hand Taupau NRL lifeline after trumping two rival bids