Jahream Bula Signs with Sydney Roosters After Tigers Contract Talks Break Down
The Sydney Morning Herald can confirm star fullback Jahream Bula has parted ways with the Wests Tigers to join the Sydney Roosters, following a breakdown in negotiations over a contract upgrade at Concord.
Wests Tigers officials had entered discussions with Bula’s management in recent weeks to finalise terms for an upgraded deal that would have secured the 23-year-old’s future at the club beyond his current contract, which was set to expire at the end of 2026. Sources close to the talks say both parties acted in good faith throughout negotiations, with the Tigers tabling an offer designed to make Bula one of the club’s highest-paid players.
However, the Herald understands key sticking points emerged over the structure of the deal and long-term commitments, with Bula’s camp pushing for greater flexibility that aligned with his career goals. Ultimately, neither side could reach a mutual agreement, and it was determined the decision to proceed would rest solely on Bula’s terms. After careful consideration, Bula opted not to commit to the Tigers’ offer, stating his desire to explore opportunities elsewhere.
Within days of talks collapsing, Bula began negotiations with the Sydney Roosters, and a deal was finalised earlier this week. Roosters recruitment chief Daniel Anderson said the club was thrilled to secure one of the NRL’s most exciting talents. “Jahream is a dynamic fullback with the skill and character to become a cornerstone of our squad,” Anderson said. “We’ve tracked his progress closely and believe he’ll thrive in our system under Trent Robinson.”
Bula, who made his NRL debut for the Tigers in 2023 and went on to win the club’s player of the year award in his rookie season, has scored 23 tries in 57 first-grade appearances. His departure is a significant blow to the Tigers, who had viewed him as a centrepiece of their rebuild under coach Benji Marshall. A Tigers spokesperson said: “We thank Jahream for his contributions to the club and wish him all the best in his future endeavours.”
The Roosters have declined to disclose the length or value of Bula’s contract, but it is understood the deal will see him don the red, white and blue from the 2027 season onwards.
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