The NRL rumour mill is in full flight following comments from former forward Justin Horo on SEN Radio, suggesting a potential player movement that could reshape the backlines of both the Penrith Panthers and the Parramatta Eels.
After the infamous Zac Lomax and Parramatta Eels court case came to an end, fans are speculating what clubs Lomax could end up at in 2028, or earlier if Eels agree in writing and believe they are fairly compensated.
According to Horo, there is a particular scenario being floated.
"I've heard Izack Tago to Parramatta to play with his brother. Freeing up a spot at Penrith for Lomax," he shared on air.
While the idea remains purely speculative at this stage, it's a move that could make sense for both clubs depending on how their rosters evolve.
If Zac Lomax landed at the Penrith Panthers, the most obvious fit would be on the wing.
Penrith's system consistently gets the best out of its outside backs, and Lomax's strengths of aerial ability, powerful carries and goal-kicking would add another weapon to the Panthers' edge attack.
The move would likely see Lomax slot straight into a wing spot, with Paul Alamoti or Thomas Jenkins pushing into the centres.
If the move came as part of a deal involving Izack Tago, it would essentially be a straight swap in the backline.
For Parramatta, acquiring Tago would add a young, established centre with strong upside who was a key part of the Panthers premiership dynasty.
The 23-year-old re-signed with Penrith in 2024 on a deal running through to at least the end of 2028. His youth and long-term contract security would appeal to a club looking to build stability in its outside backs.
Tago is a genuine centre who thrives in early-set yardage and direct carries, giving Parramatta another physical option coming out of trouble.
His defensive reads and ability to jam in on sweeping plays would also strengthen the Eels' edge defence, an area that has been targeted at times in recent seasons.
Tago's arrival could also create genuine competition in Parramatta's backline.
Players such as Sean Russell, Bailey Simonsson, and Brian Kelly would suddenly find themselves battling for spots, potentially forcing a reshuffle across the edges.
For the Eels, the move would likely be about future planning, securing a dynamic young centre who could grow with the club over the coming seasons.
At this stage, the idea remains firmly in rumour territory.
But in a league where roster management, salary cap pressures, and player relationships often drive unexpected moves, it's the kind of scenario that will keep fans watching closely.
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Magdalena, answer me this please.
If Lomax goes to Penrith, then Penrith has to pay him. That might or might not be what he was getting before. How much spare salary cap does Penrith have at the moment ?
Then Tago goes to Parra. Who will pay his salary ? Will Parra have anything left under its cap ? (Let’s ignore the question if he is really a player Parra would want long term ?)
I think you need to ring up Parra and the Storm and ask them how much they each have left under their cap. The worst they can do is to tell you it’s none of your business. But if they do give you some more polite answers then may be you would be better placed to assess the plausibility of rumours like this.