The club may see three players making the switch to the 15-player code in 2025.
The Sydney Roosters may bid farewell to three players heading to rugby union by the end of the season, with Angus Crichton being the latest player reportedly considering a move to the 15-man code.
This potential departure follows Joseph Suaalii’s signing with Rugby Australia and Joseph Manu’s indication to the Roosters that he intends to play rugby union in either France or Japan.
Crichton, who drew interest from Rugby Australia last year, is rumored to be heading to France at the conclusion of the season, having caught the attention of several French clubs.
Despite the likely move, Crichton is said to be focused on making a significant impact during his remaining time at the Sydney Roosters, having impressed during pre-season training according to reports from both The Daily Telegraph and club officials.
Earlier negotiations saw Crichton offered $800,000 per year for a two-year switch to rugby union, but discussions between the player and his management broke down, seemingly ending his rugby union aspirations.
“Like many in the rugby community, we are concerned about the current state of the game,” said his agent David Rawlings at the time. “We have moved on, and my client is concentrating on the upcoming pre-season with the Roosters.”
With Crichton on a substantial salary at the club, his departure would potentially allow the Sydney Roosters to re-sign and improve contracts for younger players or explore options in the free-agent market.
