UNBELEIVABLE! $13m man Mitchell Moses Eels Captain to swap Eels for Knights in richest deal in NRL history
UNBELIEVABLE! $13M Mitchell Moses, Eels Captain, to Swap Eels for Knights in Richest Deal in NRL History
In a bombshell move that has sent shockwaves across the rugby league world, Parramatta Eels captain and star halfback Mitchell Moses is set to leave the club to join the Newcastle Knights
in what is now officially the richest deal in NRL history—valued at a staggering $13 million. This unprecedented contract not only makes Moses the highest-paid player in the league’s modern era but also marks one of the most dramatic club switches in recent memory.
Moses, 30, has been the face of the Parramatta Eels since his arrival from the Wests Tigers in 2017. A marquee playmaker with unmatched vision, elite kicking skills, and leadership credentials, Moses has long been seen as the cornerstone of the Eels’ premiership aspirations. His departure leaves an enormous void, not only in the squad’s tactical execution but also in its culture and morale.
Sources close to the negotiation say the Knights began their pursuit of Moses early in 2025, capitalizing on contract uncertainty and growing internal tension at Parramatta following a string of disappointing seasons. Despite recent improvements under new coach Jason Ryles, the Eels have struggled to recapture their 2022 Grand Final form. Meanwhile, Newcastle—bolstered by a fresh injection of funds and ambition—saw an opportunity to secure a marquee signing that could finally deliver a long-awaited title.
The $13 million deal is reported to span five years, averaging $2.6 million per season. This eclipses the previous record deals held by players like Daly Cherry-Evans and Kalyn Ponga. The Knights have made no secret of their desire to become a genuine title threat, and Moses’ arrival is expected to transform their attack and raise their premiership ceiling dramatically.
Reactions across the NRL community have been mixed. Eels fans are understandably devastated by the loss of their captain and most influential player. Many have taken to social media to express both heartbreak and anger, questioning the club’s recruitment strategy and ability to retain its top talent. The front office now faces urgent pressure to find a suitable replacement before the start of the 2026 season.
On the other hand, Knights supporters are elated. With Moses joining a spine that already includes rising stars and seasoned veterans, Newcastle is poised for a resurgence. The deal is also a major win for the league commercially, drawing attention from sponsors and fans alike due to the blockbuster nature of the transfer.
Moses himself has yet to make a public statement, but insiders suggest the decision came down to more than just money. The lure of a fresh challenge, combined with Newcastle’s bold vision for the future, reportedly played a significant role in his decision. Still, leaving behind the club he captained and helped build into a contender will no doubt be an emotional moment for the star playmaker.
As the rugby league world processes this historic move, one thing is clear: the 2026 NRL season will have a dramatically different look, and all eyes will be on Mitchell Moses as he embarks on a new chapter in Newcastle.
