Sean Russell Set to Depart Parramatta Eels as Perth Bears Close In on Long-Term Deal
Parramatta Eels winger Sean Russell is reportedly set to leave the club, with growing confidence that the Perth Bears have secured his signature on a long-term deal beginning from the 2027 NRL season. While official confirmation is still pending, multiple reports suggest the Bears have moved decisively to lock in the talented outside back as part of their foundation roster.
Russell, a Parramatta Eels junior, has been with the club throughout his NRL development and has shown steady improvement since making his first-grade debut. Primarily used as a winger, with the ability to cover centre, the 22-year-old has been regarded internally as a high-upside prospect thanks to his athleticism, aerial ability, and finishing instincts.
However, despite his potential, Russell has found it difficult to cement a permanent spot in the Eels’ starting lineup. Competition for outside-back positions at Parramatta has been fierce in recent seasons, and inconsistent form combined with injuries has limited his opportunities to build long-term momentum at NRL level.
The reported move to the Perth Bears, who are preparing for their return to the NRL in 2027, could represent a fresh start for Russell and a major win for the expansion club. The Bears are expected to aggressively target young, first-grade-ready talent with NRL experience as they assemble a competitive squad ahead of their inaugural campaign. Securing a player like Russell early would align with that strategy.
From Parramatta’s perspective, Russell’s departure would mark the end of a long association with a home-grown talent. While he may not have fully realised his potential in blue and gold, the Eels have invested heavily in his development and provided him with a platform to establish himself as an NRL-level outside back. His exit would also reflect the tough roster decisions clubs face in a salary-cap-driven competition.
For Russell, the opportunity to join a new club at the ground floor is likely to be appealing. Expansion teams traditionally offer clearer pathways to consistent first-grade football, leadership opportunities, and long-term security — all factors that can be crucial for a young player entering the prime years of his career.
As of now, neither Parramatta Eels officials nor the Perth Bears have made a formal announcement, but confirmation is expected in due course. If finalized, the move would see Russell remain with Parramatta through the 2026 season before transitioning west ahead of the Bears’ NRL return.
Should the deal be completed, it would represent one of the earliest and most notable signings linked to Perth’s re-entry into the competition — and a significant new chapter in Sean Russell’s professional rugby league journey.
