In a major coup for the Parramatta Eels, the club has agreed terms with powerhouse forward David Fifita in a blockbuster deal worth a reported $1 million per season, sources have revealed. The shock move ends weeks of speculation surrounding Fifita’s future and represents a major statement of intent from the Western Sydney club.
Fifita, currently contracted to the Gold Coast Titans until the end of 2026, had been at the centre of increasing unrest on the glitter strip. Despite reversing a previous decision to join the Sydney Roosters in 2024 by reactivating his player option with the Titans, it appears the relationship between the Queensland club and the 24-year-old star has since deteriorated.
Tensions reportedly emerged between Fifita and head coach Des Hasler, with disputes over his role in the team and his recent demotion to reserve grade adding fuel to the fire. A lingering ankle injury and rumours that the Titans had been quietly shopping him to rival clubs only intensified speculation.
Now, the Eels have moved swiftly to take advantage of the situation.
Club insiders confirmed late Wednesday that Parramatta had reached an agreement with Fifita’s management that will see the Origin forward don the blue and gold jersey starting from the 2026 season, or potentially earlier should a release be negotiated.
The deal, believed to be for three years, will make Fifita one of the highest-paid forwards in the game and reunite him with several familiar faces from junior and representative levels.
“We’re absolutely thrilled to have secured David’s signature,” said Eels General Manager of Football Mark O’Neill. “He’s a generational talent and brings explosive power, game-breaking ability, and a wealth of experience despite his age. This is a move that signals our ambition to compete for premierships.”
Fifita’s camp remained tight-lipped, but sources close to the player suggested he sees Parramatta as the ideal environment to rejuvenate his career after a turbulent stretch on the Gold Coast. The Eels’ strong Polynesian and Queensland representation, coupled with their loyal fan base and finals ambitions, reportedly played a key role in his decision.
Coach Brad Arthur, who has faced criticism in recent weeks for the team’s inconsistency, now has a marquee signing to build around as the club looks to shore up its pack and return to premiership contention.
“This signing gives us a real boost,” Arthur said in a brief statement. “David is the type of player who can turn a game on its head. We’re excited about what he can bring to the group.”
While Fifita is still under contract with the Titans, negotiations are reportedly underway for an early release in 2025, which could allow the Eels to bring him into their system ahead of schedule.
For the Titans, the loss of their million-dollar man will sting—especially after standing firm through his Roosters backflip saga last year. But with a hefty salary now off the books and uncertainty around his commitment resolved, the move may open the door for a fresh start on both sides.
Either way, Parramatta’s audacious signing of David Fifita has just reshaped the NRL landscape.
