The Melbourne Storm have reportedly secured Bulldogs centre Bronson Xerri on a three-year contract, according to Code Sports. While the deal is set for next season, both clubs are currently discussing a potential mid-season transfer before the June 30 deadline to help the Storm address a significant injury crisis in their outside backs.
Why are the Melbourne Storm pursuing an early release?
Melbourne coach Craig Bellamy confirmed the club is actively seeking reinforcements to bolster depth following a “horror injury run.” According to Code Sports, the Storm are specifically targeting Xerri to fill voids left by long-term injuries, including the season-ending Achilles injury to Xavier Coates. Bellamy noted that while nothing had been finalized as of late, the club remains hopeful of securing new personnel before the June 30 cutoff.
How does the Bulldogs’ roster change with Xerri’s departure?
The Bulldogs have prepared for life without Xerri by reportedly signing Penrith Panthers centre Jesse McLean to a two-year deal, as reported by Code Sports. McLean has struggled for consistent first-grade minutes at Penrith, finding himself behind Izack Tago and Luke Garner in coach Ivan Cleary’s selection order. Despite his limited NRL experience, McLean has recorded 10 tries and 54 tackle busts in reserve grade this season. Bulldogs coach Cameron Ciraldo maintained that no early release for Xerri had been discussed with him directly, deferring those negotiations to the club’s football operations manager, Phil Gould.
Are other clubs facilitating mid-season player movements?
The movement in the market extends beyond the Storm and Bulldogs, with several clubs navigating contract disputes and release requests:
- Dolphins: The Storm are reportedly pushing for an early release of Oryn Keeley, who is already signed to join Melbourne in 2027. Keeley was omitted from the Dolphins’ 19-man squad for their recent clash with the Warriors.
- St. George Illawarra Dragons: The club has rejected a request for an immediate release from forward Luciano Leilua, who was reportedly seeking a move to the Brisbane Broncos, according to the Sydney Morning Herald.
- Perth Bears: The expansion side has tabled a two-year, $1 million offer for Broncos centre Gehamat Shibasaki. Code Sports reports the deal could extend to three years, as the Bears look to secure established talent for their inaugural season.
The Perth Bears are actively recruiting premiership-winning experience to build a competitive foundation for their entry into the NRL, targeting players like Shibasaki who have faced recent selection hurdles at their current clubs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Bronson Xerri play for the Melbourne Storm this year?
Yes, if the Bulldogs and the Storm agree to a release before the June 30 deadline, Xerri would be eligible to play for Melbourne for the remainder of the 2025 season.
Why is Luciano Leilua staying at the Dragons?
According to the Sydney Morning Herald, Dragons management denied Leilua’s request for an immediate release, effectively blocking his proposed move to the Brisbane Broncos.
Who are the Perth Bears targeting for their inaugural season?
The Perth Bears have offered a $1 million, two-year deal to Brisbane Broncos centre Gehamat Shibasaki, with negotiations currently underway to potentially extend the contract to a third year, per Code Sports.
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