LET’S GO!!! OFFICIAL: BRISBANE BRONCOS BEAT KNIGHTS AND PANTHERS TO SIGN EXPERIENCED DEFENDER NILASONI FINAU
BRISBANE – The Brisbane Broncos have seized a golden opportunity to secure the signature of experienced defensive tackle Nilasoni Finau from the Canberra Raiders, emerging victorious from a fierce three-club race against the Newcastle Knights and Penrith Panthers to lock in the versatile talent on a pre-contract deal.
The announcement marks a significant coup for the Broncos, who targeted Finau as a key addition to strengthen their forward pack and add depth across multiple positions ahead of the 2027 NRL season. While renowned for his prowess as a defensive tackle, Finau’s versatility has long been one of his greatest assets – a fact highlighted by his sensational performance in the 2025 Dragons Charity Shield victory over the South Sydney Rabbitohs, where he scored four tries in the first half alone while operating as an outside-back.
The crafty performer has built an impressive reputation throughout his time with the Raiders, combining robust defensive technique with sharp attacking instincts. His consistency at club level and ability to rise to the occasion in high-profile fixtures have made him one of the most sought-after players on the market, with multiple premiership-contending sides vying for his signature.
Finau will join a host of young talent at Red Hill, including reuniting with his best mate Savelio Tamale – after the pair forged a strong bond in junior football before Tamale joined the Broncos last season. The connection between the two players was a key factor in Finau’s decision to commit to the club, alongside the opportunity to work under the guidance of Brisbane’s coaching staff.
Brisbane Broncos head coach Michael ‘Madge’ Maguire hailed Finau’s decision as a major milestone for the club’s rebuilding efforts. “This signing is a game-changer for us,” Maguire stated. “To attract a player of Nilasoni’s calibre, beating out two top-tier clubs like Newcastle and Penrith, sends a clear message about where this club is heading. His experience, leadership qualities and ability to perform under pressure will be invaluable to our young squad. He’s exactly the type of player we need to drive our standards and help us compete for premierships again.”
Finau spoke passionately about his decision to move north: “This is a dream move for me. To sign with a club with the history and ambition of the Broncos is incredible. I’ve been looking forward to playing alongside Savelio again for years – we’ve shared so much in our careers and now we get to do it at NRL level with one of the game’s biggest clubs. Let’s go Broncos!”
The pre-contract agreement will see Finau join the Broncos on a three-year deal commencing in 2027, providing a major boost to the club’s plans.
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