Future of Asofa-Solomona Remains Shrouded in Mystery
The future of former Melbourne Storm front-rower and New Zealand international, Nelson Asofa-Solomona, remains one of the most compelling mysteries in rugby league. Since his release from the Storm over a month ago, the front-rower’s next move has been the subject of intense speculation. Despite being one of the game’s most imposing figures, Asofa-Solomona has been linked to a broad spectrum of possibilities beyond the NRL, including the rebel rugby union competition R360 and even the sport of boxing.
While initial reports suggested the Kiwi forward had little desire to return to the NRL until 2027, recent weeks have seen rumours surface linking him directly to two clubs: the New Zealand Warriors and the Parramatta Eels.
Eels Confirm No Direct Talks (Yet)
Parramatta Eels General Manager of Football, Mark O’Neill, has broken the club’s silence regarding the persistent Asofa-Solomona rumours. Speaking to The Sydney Morning Herald, O’Neill did not issue a firm denial of interest, but he did clarify the current status of the situation.
“We have had no conversation with Nelson,” O’Neill stated.
Crucially, O’Neill confirmed that the Eels have yet to formally engage with Asofa-Solomona or his management about a potential move to Parramatta. While the door remains slightly ajar, the club is clearly not rushing into any recruitment decisions.
Lomax Exit Frees Up Cap Space
The timing of these rumours coincides with a significant roster development at the Eels. The club recently granted star international and NSW Blues winger Zac Lomax an immediate release from the final three seasons of his contract. This unexpected departure, allowing Lomax to pursue an opportunity outside of the NRL (he is heavily linked to the R360 competition), has freed up a substantial amount of salary cap space for the Eels.
Eels CEO Jim Sarantinos addressed the shock exit, reflecting on the unpredictability of contract commitments: “I don’t think you sign any player for four years and expect that 12 months into the contract they are going to be looking at other opportunities.”
The sudden availability of significant cap funds means the Eels are now firmly positioned to make a major recruitment splash, and the potential signing of a big-name forward like Asofa-Solomona is an obvious target for speculation. However, O’Neill’s comments confirm that Parramatta will proceed cautiously as they weigh their options for reshaping the squad.