After a tumultuous month featuring a flurry of headlines and unsettling developments, the Wests Tigers are poised to part ways with young playmaker Lachlan Galvin, aged 19. Following his announcement to depart the joint venture at the end of his current contract in 2026, Galvin has generated significant conversation within the rugby league community.
Although Galvin’s future club remains uncertain pending official signings which can commence only on November 1, he has drawn interest from several NRL clubs, prominently the Parramatta Eels. This connection is driven by his manager, Isaac Moses, who is both his uncle and the manager of Parramatta’s star halfback, Mitchell Moses. Growing up a supporter of the Eels and previously linked to them, Galvin is likely to swap his Tigers jersey for one in blue and gold, especially as Parramatta seeks a replacement for Dylan Brown.
However, bringing Galvin to Parramatta may require some manoeuvring regarding the salary cap, given Brown’s substantial contract. Other potential suitors, such as the Bulldogs and the Roosters, are seen as less likely due to roster commitments and management stances. South Sydney also emerges as an option, particularly due to veteran Cody Walker’s uncertain future.
Currently, Galvin is earning approximately $350,000 at the Tigers, a figure that is expected to rise significantly with a new deal, potentially ranging between $800,000 to $1.1 million, reflecting the shortage of top-tier playmakers in the league. His departure from the Tigers is thought to be more about coaching dynamics under Benji Marshall than financial issues.
In the wake of Galvin’s anticipated exit, the Tigers are expected to utilise Latu Fainu as a primary playmaker. Fainu, sidelined by injury, is regarded as a premier young talent and was largely examined as a long-term option for the halves. There is also the possibility of recalling Jayden Sullivan, currently on loan, to bolster the squad.
As the Tigers pursue an early exit for Galvin, they also seek either a transfer fee or possibly a player swap, with speculations around a possible three-way trade involving key players. While the Tigers’ current standings suggest they are still in the running for the finals, their recent performances, characterised by errors and missed tackles from Galvin, highlight the need for a refreshed approach.
Ultimately, the resolution of Galvin’s situation may provide the Tigers with a much-needed catalyst to kickstart their campaign, riding on the potential talent of Fainu and further strengthening their aspirations in the league.