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.

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5. Sydney Roosters

Daniel Tupou, while still elite, is likely staring down the barrel of retirement, and with Mark Nawaqanitawase heading back to rugby, it may be wise for the Sydney Roosters to welcome Averillo through their doors alongside Reuben Garrick in 2027.

NRL Rd 13 – Roosters v Raiders
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - JUNE 01: Mark Nawaqanitawase of the Roosters makes a break during the round 13 NRL match between Sydney Roosters and Canberra Raiders at Allianz Stadium, on June 01, 2025, in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)

The Roosters' aging backline could do with some youth, and with Garrick set to claim one of the side's vacant backline roles, the addition of the Dolphins star could work wonders for Trent Robinson's squad.

Pair that with the fact that James Tedesco is likely in the twilight years of his own career, and Averillo's arrival in Bondi could be the perfect move for both parties.

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