Eels Stunned by Galvin Snub as Rising Star Emerges in Shock Bid to Replace Brown
Parramatta Eels head coach Jason Ryles has confirmed that the club held in-depth talks with Lachlan Galvin before the young playmaker chose to sign with the Canterbury Bulldogs. Galvin had initially planned to leave the Wests Tigers at the end of 2026 but accelerated his exit, sparking a bidding war between the Eels and Bulldogs. Despite Parramatta’s strong interest, the Bulldogs won the race for his signature.
Galvin’s move now leaves the Eels searching for a new five-eighth to partner Origin star Mitchell Moses in 2026, following Dylan Brown’s departure. While Roosters utility Sandon Smith has been linked to the Eels—amid suggestions that Sydney could land veteran Daly Cherry-Evans—Parramatta may look internally for a solution.
One name gaining support within the club is rising talent Joash Papalii. The former Bulldogs junior joined the Eels at the start of 2025 and debuted off the bench last weekend. Though primarily a fullback, Papalii is seen as a naturally gifted footballer with the potential to transition into a playmaking role.
With Isaiah Iongi locking down the fullback position thanks to standout performances following his move from Penrith, Papalii’s pathway at fullback is currently blocked. However, his versatility and skillset could earn him a shot in the halves, with club insiders reportedly backing him as a surprise contender to fill the number six jersey.
As Parramatta continues to reshape its spine, Papalii’s development will be one to watch in the coming weeks.
