Eels re-sign four as Ryles builds roster, Wests Tigers keen to extend Koroisau deal

Parramatta coach Jason Ryles has moved to future-proof his roster by re-signing four young guns, while the Wests Tigers are poised to kick off talks to keep Api Koroisau.

Jason Ryles’ retention drive is in full swing at Parramatta with the Eels coach locking in rising rookie Sam Tuivaiti and gun centre Will Penisini as part of the club’s roster rebuild.

A product of Parramatta’s pathways system, the 20-year-old Tuivaiti will remain at the Eels until at least the end of 2027 after agreeing to a two-year extension on Wednesday.

The Canley Vale Kookaburras junior, who made his NRL debut in Round 1 this year, is viewed as the future of Parramatta’s engine room.

“Sam has worked incredibly hard to earn this opportunity under head coach Jason Ryles,” Eels general manager of football Mark O’Neill said.

“As a club we have allowed time for Sam to develop and best prepare him for the rigours of NRL football which he has contributed very well in the matches he has played so far.

“Sam is of great character, and we are excited about what’s to come for him over the next few years.”

Rising Parramatta forward Sam Tuivaiti.

Penisini, who has been on the radar of rugby union, has also extended his time at the club, exercising a player option in his favour to remain in the blue and gold in 2026.

“Will is a class act on and off the field,” O’Neill said.

“He loves the club and brings strike, leadership, and professionalism to our squad. We’re delighted he’s staying with us as we continue to build our playing roster.”

Ryles has also secured Ronald Volkman until the end of 2026, having handed the young playmaker an NRL lifeline, after a failed attempt to join the Dragons left his immediate career in limbo, to join the Eels on a year deal in 2025.

Will Penisini. Picture: NRL Photos

“Ronald is a skilful and intelligent footballer. He has overcome a lot of adversity in recent years but appears to have found a home at the Eels. We’re excited to support his continued growth in our system,” O’Neill said.

Highly touted forward Toni Mataele, who made his NRL debut in last weekend’s win against the Knights, has also been locked in until the end of 2026.

“Toni has shown tremendous potential and determination to succeed throughout his journey in our elite pathways,” O’Neill said.

“His progression has been impressive, and his recent NRL debut was a well-earned reward for the effort he has put into his training and his game.

“We believe he has a big future at the Eels.”

WESTS TIGERS TO KICK-OFF KOROISAU TALKS

- Brent Read

The Wests Tigers are poised to kick off contract talks with Api Koroisau next week as they look to keep their captain out of the clutches of expansion teams and provide some stability amid speculation over the future of Lachlan Galvin.

Koroisau is off contract at the end of next season, making him a prime target for Perth as they prepare to enter the premiership in 2027. The Tigers are determined to keep them at bay given Koroisau’s outstanding form and leadership qualities.

The Wests Tigers are keen to extend Apisai Koroisau’s contract. Picture: Getty Images

It is understood Koroisau’s manager reached out to the club in a bid to get some clarity over their plans for the former NSW hooker, prompting the Tigers to lock in talks next week.

Plans to speak to Koroisau and his agent come as the club remains tight-lipped over the outcome of a board meeting this week where the future of Galvin was discussed.

Galvin is off contact at the end of next season but has already told the club he won’t be extending his deal.

Leka Halasima of the Warriors. Picture: Getty Images

WARRIORS LOCK DOWN RISING STARS

- David Riccio

The Warriors have locked down two of the most promising forwards in the game with huge contract extensions for Leka Halasima and Jacob Laban.

In a major blow for rival clubs looking to scout the duo, both Halasima and Laban have signed new deals until the end of 2029.

The 19-year-old Halasima wasn’t off contract until the end of 2027 and Laban, 21, at the end of 2026.

However, following their blistering entry to the NRL this season, the Warriors have secured the pair long-term.

Originally published as Eels re-sign four as Ryles builds roster, Wests Tigers keen to extend Koroisau deal