While many stars have been linked with a move from their current club this offseason, one surprising name that has been mentioned in transfer whispers is Dolphins gun Jake Averillo.

Off contract at the end of 2026, the Dolphins seem to be in no rush to re-sign the 25-year-old and could let him walk at the conclusion of his current deal.

NRL Rd 6 – Dolphins v Panthers
BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 10: Jake Averillo of the Dolphins breaks away from the defence during the round six NRL match between Dolphins and Penrith Panthers at Suncorp Stadium, on April 10, 2025, in Brisbane, Australia. (Photo by Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images)

A versatile player that can excel in any backline position, as well as in the halves, Averillo's services will be in high demand should he depart from Redcliffe, with a few clubs in particular emerging as the most likely destinations.

3. Parramatta Eels

The loss of Zac Lomax after just one season with the Parramatta Eels raised a few question marks for Jason Ryles' side, but by adding someone of Averillo's caliber, the rookie coach may not be as shorthanded as he originally feared.

2025 NRL Pre-Season Challenge – Wests Tigers v Eels
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - FEBRUARY 21: Zac Lomax of the Eels looks on during the 2025 NRL Pre-Season Challenge match between Wests Tigers and Parramatta Eels at Leichhardt Oval on February 21, 2025 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images)

Returning to Western Sydney, Averillo would be the perfect addition to the Eels backline. His tireless motor and NRL experience would be terrific for the club's youngsters, and would be a much cheaper replacement for Lomax as well.

He could also assume the role of five-eighth if needed, and with question marks around the Eels' future No. 6, he could be the answer while the club trains up its young guns.