Bulldogs head coach Cameron Ciraldo hasn’t dismissed the possibility of pursuing Lachlan Galvin, as speculation grows that the Wests Tigers five-eighth may have already played his final game for the club.
Galvin’s future has become a hot topic since his management informed the Tigers he wouldn’t consider re-signing past 2026. While both sides insist he will fulfill his current deal, fresh reports on Wednesday suggested an early departure before the June 30 deadline could happen, potentially involving a player trade or transfer fee.
Bulldogs head of football Phil Gould has previously praised Galvin as the most promising young playmaker he’s ever seen, intensifying rumors of Canterbury’s interest. Both the Bulldogs and the Eels have been named as suitors, though Ciraldo and Gould had earlier downplayed any plans to sign the teenager.
“I believe I’ve already addressed this, and Gus (Gould) has as well,” Ciraldo said on Wednesday, shortly after the latest update on Galvin surfaced.
“I only caught wind of the newest reports right before stepping in here. We haven’t had a chance to really consider it or talk things through.”
He added that his focus was solely on their upcoming match and using the bye week to evaluate their progress.
When asked directly if a move for Galvin was still possible, Ciraldo remained non-committal.
“That’s a fair question,” he replied. “Honestly, we’re just focused on tomorrow night. We want to finish this first half of the season strong, then we’ll have 18 days to review and assess everything. I’m sure those conversations will happen in due course.”
As long as halfback Toby Sexton remains unsigned beyond 2025, Galvin’s name is likely to keep popping up in connection with the Bulldogs. Sexton has been a standout this season, helping the Bulldogs reach the top of the ladder, but no agreement has been reached on an extension.
Ciraldo emphasized the importance of honest dialogue within the squad.
“One of the keys to our progress is transparency,” he said. “We’ve had open, honest conversations with every player. They know where we’re at and where we need to improve—as a team and as individuals. Those discussions are ongoing.”
Meanwhile, the Parramatta Eels are another strong contender for Galvin, as they look for a long-term replacement for Dylan Brown in the halves.
“He’s a talented player, no doubt,” said Eels veteran Junior Paulo. “Where he lands, that’s for the club and his agent to sort out. For now, Dyl is here and our focus is on the game. We wish Lachie the best with whatever’s ahead, but we’ve got our own job to do.”
