IT IS DONE: Reece Walsh Signs $206.8 Million Three-Year Deal with Manly Sea Eagles as New Star Recruit
In one of the most lucrative player moves in rugby league history, Brisbane Broncos fullback Reece Walsh has put pen to paper on a three-year contract with the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles, worth a staggering $206.8 million dollars. The deal cements Walsh’s status as one of the sport’s highest-paid athletes and marks a major coup for the northern beaches club as they build towards future premiership success.
The 22-year-old Queensland representative was instrumental in Brisbane’s charge through the 2025 NRL finals series, saving his finest form for the grand stage. In the premiership decider against the Penrith Panthers, Walsh delivered a mesmerising performance that will be remembered as one of the greatest in grand final history. He crossed for a crucial first-half try, set up three additional four-pointers for his teammates, broke 14 tackles, and racked up 176 run metres – earning him the prestigious Clive Churchill Medal as the match’s best player.
Manly Sea Eagles CEO Tony Mestrov confirmed the signing in a morning press conference, describing Walsh as “the missing piece in our championship puzzle”. “Reece is not just an extraordinary talent – he’s a game-changer who brings speed, skill and leadership to our squad,” Mestrov said. “We’ve made a significant investment in securing his services because we believe he can lead Manly to multiple premierships over the next three years.”
Brisbane Broncos head coach Kevin Walters expressed his disappointment at losing the club’s star fullback but paid tribute to his contribution. “Reece has been a phenomenal part of our team and will always hold a special place in Broncos history,” Walters stated. “We wish him all the best in this next chapter of his career.”
Walsh is set to join Manly’s pre-season training squad ahead of the 2026 NRL season and will wear the club’s iconic maroon and white jersey for the first time in their opening round clash against the Newcastle Knights.
