BRISBANE, April 6, 2025 — In a move that has left the NRL community stunned, sources close to the Brisbane Broncos have revealed the club is making a serious play to poach Penrith Panthers breakout star Paul Alamoti ahead of the 2026 season.
The 20-year-old centre, who joined Penrith from the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs at the start of the 2024 campaign, has quickly established himself as one of the most dynamic young players in the league. His blistering pace, strong defensive reads, and eye for the try-line have made him a crucial figure in the Panthers’ premiership push — and now, a target for rival clubs.
Alamoti currently leads Penrith in tries this season with four in just five rounds, and it hasn’t taken long for top-tier teams to notice. According to multiple sources, the Broncos have been quietly sounding out Alamoti’s management for several weeks, hoping to lure the young gun to Red Hill in what could become one of the biggest moves of the year.
Broncos Making Bold Moves
The Broncos are understood to be targeting Alamoti as a long-term replacement for veteran centre Herbie Farnworth, who left the club at the end of last season. While Jesse Arthars and Kotoni Staggs have formed a solid combination, Brisbane is seeking to add further depth and explosiveness to their backline.
“Paul is exactly the kind of player Brisbane wants to build around,” a source close to the Broncos recruitment team told League Insider. “He’s young, confident, and already producing at an elite level. They see him as the future.”
Broncos coach Kevin Walters has reportedly given the green light for the pursuit, and club officials are preparing a substantial offer that could rival any extension Penrith places on the table. With Brisbane’s cap space opening up due to roster reshuffling, they are well-positioned to make a competitive bid.
Panthers Caught Off Guard
Penrith officials are believed to be blindsided by Brisbane’s approach, especially given how seamlessly Alamoti has slotted into their system. The Panthers have built their dynasty on the back of youth development and internal promotions, and losing a talent like Alamoti — just as he begins to flourish — would be a massive blow.
“We’ve only just scratched the surface with Paul,” one Panthers insider said. “He’s a key part of our plans moving forward. We’ll do everything we can to keep him.”
It is unclear whether Alamoti has a release clause or trigger in his current deal, but Penrith are expected to move quickly to lock him down with an upgraded contract extension in the coming weeks.
Alamoti Stays Silent — For Now
As for the man at the centre of the storm, Alamoti has kept a low profile. The young centre has yet to speak publicly about his future, but those close to him say he remains focused on helping the Panthers secure another title.
“He’s loving his time at Penrith,” a source from Alamoti’s camp said. “But obviously, when clubs like Brisbane come knocking, you have to listen.”
NRL Community Reacts
News of the Broncos’ interest has sparked mixed reactions across the NRL. Some fans believe the move reflects Brisbane’s growing ambition to return to the top, while others view it as a threat to Penrith’s carefully constructed squad stability.
“This is the nature of the game now,” former Panthers captain Greg Alexander told Fox League. “Young stars are always going to attract attention. The key is how you manage them and make them feel valued.”
With the NRL season still in its early stages, one thing is clear: Paul Alamoti’s future is set to become one of the most talked-about stories of 2025. Whether he stays loyal to the Panthers or is lured north by the Broncos, the tug-of-war for one of the league’s brightest stars is officially underway.
