Warriors sign Eels star Marata Niukore on $2.5 million deal

A star back-rower was one of seven off-contract stars the Eels were trying to keep — but he’s now set to cross the ditch in 2023.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - MAY 01: Marata Niukore of the Eels scores a try during the round eight NRL match between the Canterbury Bulldogs and the Parramatta Eels at Stadium Australia, on May 01, 2021, in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Mark Evans/Getty Images)

The Warriors have reportedly signed Eels back-rower Marata Niukore on a four-year deal worth $2.5 million.

Niukore was one of seven off-contract stars the Eels were trying to keep but he’s now set to cross the ditch in 2023, according to News Corp.

The 25-year-old will see out the final season of his Parramatta contract next year, before linking up with the Warriors on $625,000 per season.

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The New Zealand club reportedly beat out the Eels and Dragons for his signature.

Niukore played 21 games for the Eels last season, starting at centre, prop and in the second row, while also making six appearances from the interchange bench.

Marata Niukore. Getty Images.

Sharks five-eighth Luke Metcalf has also agreed to join the Warriors from 2023 on a two-year deal.

However, the Sharks are reportedly keen on the young gun to backflip on the deal like Toby Rudolf did in 2020 after agreeing to join the Warriors.

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Originally published as Warriors sign Eels star Marata Niukore on $2.5 million deal