ROOSTERS ON VERGE OF LANDING RABBITOHS STAR KOLOAMATANGI IN BLOCKBUSTER DEAL
Sydney Roosters are on the cusp of securing the signature of South Sydney powerhouse Keaon Koloamatangi in a move that has sent shockwaves through the NRL, ending months of desperate pursuit for the in-demand forward and leaving Rabbitohs fans with heavy hearts.
Multiple reports confirmed moments ago that Koloamatangi has agreed to terms with the Tricolours, bringing to a close a fierce bidding war that saw the Roosters pull out all stops to land their top target. The Bondi-based club had been desperate to sign the 26-year-old to bolster their forward pack, with coach Trent Robinson identifying him as the missing piece to challenge for another premiership.
For South Sydney supporters, the news marks the end of an era for a player who rose from their junior ranks to become one of the competition’s most feared enforcers. Koloamatangi’s journey at Redfern began in the club’s youth system before he made his NRL debut in 2020 – a breakout year that saw him claim the prestigious John Sattler Rookie of the Year award.
Since then, he has established himself as a key forward, renowned for his powerful running, deft flick passes, and unwavering work ethic in the middle of the field. His impact has extended beyond club level: he earned selection for the NSW Blues in 2021 and represented Tonga at the 2021 Rugby League World Cup, showcasing his ability to perform on the game’s biggest stages. He has also played in multiple NRL Finals campaigns with the Rabbitohs, helping the club reach the grand final in 2021.
Roosters officials have declined to comment on the specifics of the deal, but sources indicate it is a long-term contract that reflects Koloamatangi’s status as an elite NRL forward. The move will see him link up with a star-studded roster including James Tedesco and Joseph Manu, giving the Tricolours a formidable forward pack ahead of the upcoming season.
Rabbitohs CEO Blake Solly expressed disappointment at losing Koloamatangi but praised his contribution to the club. “Keaon has been a wonderful servant of South Sydney, and we wish him all the best for his future,” Solly said. “He will always hold a special place in our hearts.”
As Roosters fans celebrate the impending arrival, Rabbitohs supporters are coming to terms with the loss of a player who became the face of their next generation – a bitter pill to swallow for a club already navigating a period of transition.
