The Parramatta Eels are set to allow Joash Papalii to depart the club, as the shape of the future spine in Sydney's west continues to take shape.
It has been something of a rollercoaster in recent months for both Papalii and Ronald Volkman, whose form has surprised the Eels into offering him a new deal.
Papalii was seen as a big part of the club's future after playing in place of Dylan Brown at the back end of 2025, and while his form has been solid when handed opportunities this year, it now appears clear he is leaving the club.
Overlooked for both NRL and NSW Cup selection in recent weeks, Wide World of Sports' The Mole is also now reporting he has vanished from training and is almost certain to leave the club.
That follows a social media post this week from Papalii which showed a slideshow of images of him in an Eels jersey, with the caption "Last one at home w [sic] my brothers."
Sources have confirmed to the publication that he is not injured, and it's understood that several rival clubs are looking at the spine player who can handle either the number one or six jumpers.
The 22-year-old has played 26 games for the Eels since debuting last year, having moved from the Canterbury Bulldogs.
His departure comes with the Eels in the fight for Ronald Volkman's signature.
The looming uncertainty caused by the arrival and 12-month deal of Jarome Luai from the Wests Tigers before he moves to the PNG Chiefs next year has led to the Canterbury Bulldogs making a play for his signature.
It was understood as recently as early this week that the blue and white, who are also looking to revitalise their spine with the combinations simply not working during 2026, were in the lead for Volkman's signature, but it's now being reported the Eels will secure his services on a two-year deal.
Volkman will likely have to bide his time behind Mitchell Moses and Jarome Luai next year, but a two-year deal means he is almost certain to reclaim his NRL position in 2028.
The half who can play either five-eighth or halfback has been a shining light for the Eels, and his ability, which was clear as he came through the ranks at the Sydney Roosters before joining the New Zealand Warriors, was evident, even if never fully on display at NRL level.
It has been another miserable season for Jason Ryles' side, and there is little doubt the head coach will be under the pump from the start of next year.
