The worst kept secret in the NRL has officially been confirmed on Wednesday afternoon, with the Wests Tigers confirming the signing of Penrith Panthers star Jarome Luai.
Luai had reportedly informed Penrith of his intentions to leave the club a week before Christmas, giving his employers a chance to respond with an improved offer.
The Tigers' mega five-year, $6 million offer was nearly impossible for any other club to match leaving Luai with the tough decision to trade in premiership contention for a club going on to ten years without a finals appearance.
Speaking at a press conference in Sydney, Luai confirmed the news and opened up on his decision-making process over the last couple of months.
“Probably the toughest decision of my career and probably life so far,” Luai said.
“Definitely gotten a lot more attention than what we would have liked these past few months.
“The purpose of this was to clear everything up and get everything out of the way out of respect and courtesy for the year ahead for my team and my teammates in 2024.
“So, without further ado, for 2025 I’ll be heading to the Wests Tigers to continue my career.
“The obvious reason was it was a great opportunity for me to provide and create for my family, and also to create for myself.
“I’ve had a great connection with Benji (Marshall), we’ve spoken about the future and what he sees in me and moving forward. I’m really excited about it.”
Luai’s childhood hero and future coach Benji Marshall was delighted with securing the three-time premiership winner and praised his character away from the game.
“His experience as a genuine premiership-winning playmaker will be great for us and the future of our club,” Marshall said in a 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.”
Luai will join the Tigers at the end of the 2024 NRL season.
Photo/Jelisa Apps (X)
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