David Fifita has agreed to join the Sydney Roosters after opting to depart Gold Coast at the end of the year and declining an offer from reigning premiers Penrith.
Fifita informed Roosters officials on Thursday of his decision to sign a four-year deal with the NRL club, reportedly worth close to $3.3 million. His signing is seen as a significant coup for the Roosters, who are looking to fill the void left by impending departures, including those of Joey Manu and Joseph Aukuso-Suaalii.
The news of Fifita’s move comes as a blow to both the Titans and Panthers. The 24-year-old met with Gold Coast officials on Wednesday but ultimately decided not to activate the final two years of his contract. Titans coach Des Hasler emphasized that Fifita’s decision should not be viewed as abandonment, but rather as a player making a choice about his future.
Fifita’s departure will free up salary cap space for the Titans, providing an opportunity to invest in other areas once veteran Kieran Foran retires. Meanwhile, Penrith, initially considered front runners for Fifita’s signature, were informed on Thursday that they had missed out. The Panthers had hoped to secure Fifita’s services to fill the gap left by James Fisher-Harris’ impending departure.
With Fifita’s move to the Roosters, there may also be implications for the NRLW, as his partner Shaylee Bent is off contract with the Titans and could potentially join him at the Roosters. This development could prompt Penrith to consider off-contract Rooster Angus Crichton as an alternative option for their forward pack.
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