PARRAMATTA EELS HIJACK TYRAN WISHART DEAL WITH DOUBLE SALARY OFFER – STORM STAR DEFECTS DESPITE IMPENDING EXTENSION
Versatile utility player shocks Melbourne by pledging allegiance to Eels, citing love for Parramatta fans as key factor
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – 8 JANUARY 2026 – The Parramatta Eels have flexed their financial muscle to secure one of the NRL’s most sought-after utility players, with Tyran Wishart agreeing to join the club after rejecting an impending contract extension with Melbourne Storm. In a stunning move that has sent ripples through the league and heightened tensions between the two clubs, the Eels offered double the salary Storm had tabled for the 25-year-old, who was on the verge of putting pen to paper on new terms in Melbourne.
Wishart, currently under contract with the Storm until the end of 2026, had explored testing the open market in late 2025 in search of increased starting opportunities. Despite deep negotiations with Melbourne that were reportedly at their final stages, the versatile talent made the unexpected decision to switch allegiances to Parramatta, publicly stating his admiration and love for Eels fans as a driving force behind his choice.
Since making his NRL debut in 2022, Wishart has established himself as one of the competition’s most reliable utility assets, capable of covering hooker, halfback, and fullback with equal composure. His contributions off the bench have been instrumental to Melbourne’s success, earning him the Billy Slater Rookie of the Year Award in his debut season. He went on to feature in the 2024 NRL Grand Final and earned representative honours with the Prime Minister’s XIII in both 2024 and 2025, showcasing the versatility, resilience, and strong work ethic that have made him a valued member of the Storm squad.
The deal marks a significant coup for the Eels, who have been determined to strengthen their squad after a mixed 2025 campaign. Parramatta’s offer, which doubles the financial package Melbourne was prepared to pay, reflects their commitment to securing top-tier talent as they aim to re-establish dominance in the NRL. Club officials have described Wishart as a “perfect fit” for their playing style, highlighting his ability to add depth and flexibility to their spine positions.
Tensions have flared between the two clubs following the announcement, with Melbourne expressing disappointment at losing a player they had invested heavily in developing. Storm’s football director noted that while they respected Wishart’s decision, the scale of the Eels’ offer had made it difficult to compete. “We had a strong deal on the table and were confident of retaining Tyran, but Parramatta has made an offer that reflects the growing financial competitiveness of the league,” he said in a brief statement.
In a message to Eels supporters, Wishart said: “I’ve always had immense respect for the passion of Parramatta fans, and the opportunity to play for this club was one I couldn’t turn down. While I’ll always be grateful to Melbourne for what they’ve done for my career, I’m excited to start this new chapter and contribute to bringing success to the blue and gold.”
The move is subject to a release from Melbourne, with negotiations between the two clubs ongoing to finalise the transfer arrangements ahead of the 2026 season.
