BREAKING | Parramatta Eels in advanced talks to sign Wests Tigers’ 19‑year‑old five‑eighth, Lachlan Galvin, on a one‑ to two‑year deal
In what could be one of the most intriguing mid‑season NRL transfer sagas in recent years, the Parramatta Eels have reportedly entered advanced negotiations to secure a one‑ to two‑year 
deal with highly‑rated five‑eighth Lachlan Galvin, currently contracted to the Wests Tigers. While he officially becomes a free agent on November 1, 2025, sources indicate that Parramatta is preparing an early acquisition amidst growing off-field unrest at Balmain.
1. Galvin’s abrupt departure from Wests Tigers
In April, Galvin stunned the rugby league landscape by rejecting a lucrative $6 million extension from the Tigers, citing a desire to pursue development elsewhere and a lack of faith in the coaching direction under Benji Marshall . The fallout was swift: senior players reportedly pushed for his removal from the squad, and coach Marshall dropped him from the Easter Monday team lineup . Galvin later released a statement acknowledging the personal and professional toll but maintained his decision was made to enable both parties to move forward constructively .
2. Eligibility for negotiations & potential early release
Per NRL rules, Galvin cannot formally negotiate with other clubs until November 1, 2025—following the conclusion of his contract in 2026 . However, the Tigers are reportedly evaluating an early‑release pathway, potentially involving a transfer fee of around $165,000, enabling a move mid‑season . If granted, this could accelerate Parramatta’s plans to bring him on board well before free agency opens.
3. Why Parramatta are pushing hard
With Dylan Brown confirmed to join Newcastle on a landmark $13 million deal, the Eels have freed up significant salary cap space—estimated at $1–1.2 million . Meanwhile, overworked Mitchell Moses, still seeking an ideal halves partner, sees Galvin as “the perfect complement”—a sentiment echoed by club legend Brett Kenny, who likened the pairing to his own alongside Peter Sterling in the 1980s . Crucially, Galvin is represented by Isaac Moses, Mitchell’s uncle and manager, which could streamline negotiations.
4. Suitors & shifting allegiances
While Parramatta appear to be leading the race, other clubs—particularly Canterbury Bulldogs—have also expressed interest . Reports vary: Nine’s Paul Kent suggests Galvin “has effectively agreed to terms” with the Eels, despite the formal signing window still being closed . Bulldogs GM Phil Gould, however, has downplayed the likelihood of Galvin heading to Belmore, citing concerns about his public stance on the Tigers .
5. What this means for Galvin
Still only 19 and having scored five tries in 31 NRL first‑grade games across two clubs , Galvin has emerged as one of the most exciting young playmakers in the NRL. His arrival at Parramatta could provide short‑term cover in Moses’ absence and long‑term stability, earning him substantial game time and a platform to accelerate his development.
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In summary:
Parramatta are pursuing Lachlan Galvin on a planned 1–2‑year deal, navigating both cap space and player management factors, with talks reportedly advanced well before his official free agency opens on November 1, 2025. The move, if finalized, would mark a major coup for the Eels and set the stage for a reshaped halves combination at Commbank Stadium.