By Adrian Proszenko
The NRL is investigating after Lachlan Galvin was spotted at Belmore in Bulldogs training gear before the governing body had registered his contract with the club.
Footage of Galvin at Canterbury headquarters appeared on social media on Friday lunchtime. It was the first glimpse of the teenage playmaker at his new home.
The vision emerged before the Tigers sent out a media release late on Friday afternoon confirming a release had been granted. The Bulldogs issued a statement on Friday evening officially announcing Galvin’s signing until the end of 2028, effective immediately.
“We wish Lachlan all the best with another NRL club,” Tigers chief executive Shane Richardson said in the statement.
The statement also offered the following quote from Galvin: “I am grateful to the Wests Tigers board and management for granting my early release. I wish the playing group success in the future.”
Galvin’s release was granted after he dropped a bullying legal claim against the joint-venture outfit, and the Bulldogs provided a transfer fee of $165,000.
Bulldogs coach Cameron Ciraldo.Credit: SMH
Sources unauthorised to speak publicly have said the NRL is still looking into the matter, given Galvin was still contractually committed to the Tigers when filmed at Belmore. The Bulldogs have a bye this week and there wasn’t a formal training session on Friday when Galvin was filmed on the training field.
Concerns have been raised about potential contractual and insurance implications given Galvin wasn’t officially a Bulldog at that time. The NRL, the Tigers and the Bulldogs were contacted for comment.
Clubs were provided a timely reminder about the game’s transfer rules following the saga involving Ronald Volkman. The NRL handed the Dragons a suspended $40,000 fine after the club trumpeted the playmaker’s signing and allowed him to train, while still hampered by a shoulder injury, before a contract had been registered with head office.
The footage posted of Galvin lasted only seven seconds and didn’t show him participating in any training drills. However, the NRL will still seek an explanation from Canterbury. The 19-year-old is expected to make his first appearance for the blue-and-whites against Parramatta - a suitor he knocked back - on the King’s Birthday Monday.
Under the transfer rules, players have a 10-day cooling-off period in case they change their mind after signing a contract. It appears Galvin has waived that option in a bid to start forming combinations with his new side.
Galvin has a close relationship with Canterbury assistant coach Luke Vella, who has coached him at junior level, and that proved a trump card in ensuring the Bulldogs secured his signature.
Galvin’s arrival will likely result in the departure of halfback Toby Sexton, who is off contract at the end of the season. Hooker Reed Mahoney has also been granted permission to explore his options.
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