Bronson Xerri has signed a three-year contract with the Melbourne Storm, ending his tenure with the Canterbury Bulldogs. According to a July 10, 2026, report from ESPN, the 25-year-old centre will remain at Canterbury for the rest of the 2026 season before joining Melbourne for the 2027 preseason. The deal keeps Xerri in the NRL through the end of the 2029 campaign.
Melbourne Storm Secure Bronson Xerri to Bolster Outside Backs
Melbourne Director of Football Frank Ponissi confirmed the club is “delighted” to secure Xerri, citing the player’s speed, athleticism, and competitive nature as key additions to the roster. The move comes as the Storm face a deficit in quality outside backs.
The signing follows the departure of Will Warbrick, who signed with the Warriors, and Nick Meaney, who is slated to join the Perth Bears. By securing the 76-game veteran, Melbourne fills a critical void in their backline heading into the next three seasons.
Tumultuous Final Chapter at Canterbury Bulldogs
Xerri’s exit follows a difficult period at Canterbury. Despite being contracted to the Bulldogs for 2027, the club allowed him to explore other options before June 30. This window sparked a recruitment battle between Melbourne and the Parramatta Eels.
His third season back from a four-year doping ban was marked by instability. Following the Bulldogs’ Las Vegas opener, Xerri was dropped from the starting side, only returning to his centre role in round six. During this period, reports surfaced that Xerri was unhappy at the club, leading the team to wear “we before me” slogans on their shirts.
The public nature of these struggles drew a rebuke from Bulldogs legend Josh Morris, who reminded the player that Canterbury had provided him a lifeline after his suspension.
Toni Mataele Returns to Manly Sea Eagles
In a separate roster move reported by ESPN, the Manly Sea Eagles have signed Eels forward Toni Mataele to a two-year deal starting next year. Mataele, 23, struggled for game time at Parramatta, appearing in only six games this season.
The signing marks a return to the club where Mataele helped Manly win their first Harold Matthews Cup premiership in 2018. He is expected to provide additional depth to the Sea Eagles’ middle rotation.
Comparison of Recent Roster Shifts
| Player | From | To | Contract Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bronson Xerri | Canterbury | Melbourne | 3 Years (thru 2029) |
| Toni Mataele | Parramatta | Manly | 2 Years |
| Will Warbrick | Melbourne | Warriors | Not Specified |
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Bronson Xerri officially start with the Melbourne Storm?
Xerri will remain with the Bulldogs for the rest of the 2026 season and will join the Storm for the start of preseason training ahead of the 2027 season.
Why did Xerri leave Canterbury early?
While contracted through 2027, reports indicated Xerri was unhappy at the club, and the Bulldogs allowed him to explore options before June 30.
Who is replacing Bronson Xerri in the Bulldogs’ lineup?
In the immediate term, Matt Burton and Enari Tuala have taken over the No. 3 and No. 4 jerseys, according to team lists for the clash against Canberra.
What do you think about Melbourne’s strategy in poaching Xerri? Does he fit their system? Let us know in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more NRL breaking news.
