Jarome Luai is set to finally confirm his future with the Wests Tigers, at a press conference where he will make an announcement on Wednesday afternoon. This has come after the Penrith Panthers reportedly waived the ten day cooling off period.
The talented five-eighth’s future has been the topic of much debate for several months. Having been absent from training with the Panthers after informing teammates 2024 would be his final season with the club, it was widely expected that he will going to Wests on a monster five year, $6 million dollar deal.
Under the new NRL transfer rules, once an offer is agreed upon for a player to switch clubs there is a ten day cooling off period to give the player’s former club time to negotiate with all parties and potentially come up with a counter offer they would like.
However, the Panthers, who have tabled a reported three year deal worth $2.5 million, have now waived their right to the cooling off period, which enables Luai to officially accept the Tigers’ offer without a delay.
(Photo by Mark Kolbe/Getty Images)
The move is a much needed grab for new coach Benji Marshall, with the playing group in desperate need of a strong playmaker. Marshall has since confirmed that Luai will be joining the club, ahead of the announcement.
“We are super excited to announce the signing of Jarome for the 2025 season on a five-year deal,” said Marshall in a press statement.
“We love the way Jarome plays his footy and even better, he is a great person.
“We very much look forward to welcoming Jarome and his family to our club in 2025, but right now, season 2024 is our focus.”
More to come.