Panthers star Liam Henry signs on to Perth Bears for 2027 NRL season

The Perth Bears have landed a major scalp in the form of a Panthers premiership winner as their raid on the NRL continues.

The Perth Bears have locked in their biggest signing, with Panthers star Liam Henry inking a four-year deal with the new franchise, but it’s another big name they’ve locked in who could play a key role in their recruitment for 2027.

Iszac Fa’asuamaleaui has signed a two-year deal to join the team when they enter the competition, and he could help the Bears land his older brother Tino, who is one of the hottest free agents on the market.

The Maroons and Kangaroos forward signed long term with the Titans but has a player option to leave, with several rival clubs chasing his signature.

The fact his brother will be at the Bears could help lure him across, with Perth likely to break the bank to secure the services of one of the world’s best forwards.

Iszac Fa'asuamaleaui (left) has signed a two-year deal with the Bears, sparking hopes he will lure his brother Tino (right) along with him. Pic: NRL

“This is another proud day for the Perth Bears,” coach Mal Meninga said.

“Liam is one of the most exciting middle forward prospects in the NRL and I am ecstatic to have him as part of our inaugural roster.

“Iszac is a versatile and athletic forward who will look to continue his development with Catalans next season before coming to Perth for 2027.

“Both players have their best footy in front of them and I have no doubt will make an immediate impact with the Bears”.

Mal Meninga said he was “ecstatic” to have Henry on board. Picture: NRL

Fa’asuamaleaui will spend a year with fellow Bears recruit Toby Sexton at Catalans before he returns to Australia, while 2024 premiership winner Henry looms as a key signing in the middle after establishing himself at Penrith.

“I’m excited about the opportunity to be a part of history and continue my career with the Perth Bears from 2027,” he said, with Henry likely to earn a starting spot.

“It’s not every day you get the chance to be a part of a new team in a new city and it’s that opportunity that excites me the most.”

Liam Henry has inked a four-year deal with the Bears. Picture: Rohan Kelly

Bears general manager of football David Sharpe says the club is “building something special” after a slow start to their recruitment drive as they look to be competitive from the outset.

“Liam and Iszac are quality humans who I know will relish the opportunity to continue their careers in Western Australia,” he said.

“We are building something special over here and I am delighted to have them both as part of our inaugural Top 30 squad.”

Originally published as Panthers star Liam Henry signs on to Perth Bears for 2027 NRL season