Two more Parramatta Eels players linked with early exit
In a surprising twist for the Parramatta Eels, two more players are reportedly on the verge of an early exit from the club. According to sources close to the team, the Eels are preparing to part ways with veteran forward Ryan Matterson and promising young back Jacob Arthur, as both players are linked with moves away from Bankwest Stadium.
Matterson, known for his solid defensive capabilities and leadership on the field, has been a key figure in the Eels’ lineup. However, recent negotiations regarding his contract renewal have hit a snag, leading to speculation about his potential departure. The 29-year-old’s exit could create a significant void in the Eels’ forward pack.
On the other hand, Jacob Arthur, the 22-year-old playmaker and son of coach Brad Arthur, is also reportedly seeking new opportunities. With limited game time and a highly competitive roster, Arthur is exploring options that might provide him with more regular playing minutes. His departure would be a notable shift, given his promising potential and familial connection to the club.
The Eels are yet to make an official statement regarding these departures. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how these potential exits might impact the team’s strategy and performance in the upcoming season.
The rumours come after second-rower Ryan Matterson was granted permission to speak with rival teams and see if there are any offers on the table for his services despite being contracted until the end of the 2026 season.
“Nothing’s happened as yet, but the conversation has occurred with his management to give him basically a little tap on the shoulder that, if there’s anything out there, it might be worth having a look around,” journalist Michael Chammas said on 100% Footy on Monday.
A 2018 premiership winner, Matterson joined the Eels in 2020 following stints with the Sydney Roosters (2016-18) and Wests Tigers (2019), where he found career-best form and represented the NSW Blues in the 2022 State of Origin series.
More recently, he was linked with a potential move to The Dolphins for their maiden season in which they offered him a four-year contract but he decided to remain at Parramatta.
The Parramatta Eels have also shut down rumours that $950,000 front-rower Junior Paulo would be granted an early exit and allowed to speak with rival teams just like his former NSW Blues teammate.
One of the club’s best forwards after re-joining the Parramatta Eels in 2019 – after a three-year stint with the Canberra Raiders – Paulo has unfortunately had a dip in form this season.
According to reports from The Sydney Morning Herald, the Parramatta Eels are furious at rumours and suggestions that they are looking to move on Junior Paulo before his contract expires.
Contracted until the end of the 2026 season on a salary of $950,000 per season, it is understood that the club has told him that he is not going anywhere and will see out the remainder of his deal.
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