Zac Lomax will not be released by the St George-Illawarra Dragons this year; however, he could still be on the move in 2025 if the deal is right.
News emerged that Lomax was wanting an immediate release as he was unhappy with his new position on the wing, but journalist Michael Carayannis has reported that the Dragons “have no intention to release Zac Lomax immediately”.
“When Zac (Lomax) first approached (the Dragons) about the potential for a release they said ‘No way, we’re not even gonna entertain it’,” Carayannis said, speaking on Breakfast with Vossy and Brandy.
“Let’s give you a month to see how things are and settle after the first four games… and that’s next week.
“The Dragons aren’t going to let him go for nothing this year, and they aren’t going to chip in a significant amount of his wage to go play elsewhere in the next couple years.
“The Dragons are of the belief that Lomax will ask for an immediate release and the Dragons have no intention to release Zac Lomax immediately.”
As for next season, the news isn’t as positive for the Red V faithful.
“Parramatta are circling, The only way the Dragons would release him this year is if they could get something significant in terms of a player,” Carayannis added.
"It does open the door for him to leave at the end of this year and they may not need a player in return, just the fact that if someone is willing to pick up most or all of his $800,000.”
Given Lomax’s significant salary, and the Eels’ backlog of quality forwards and juniors, the Dragons could stand to get a first-class player in return, though it seems unlikely Parramatta would release any of their stars.
Additionally, Andrew Voss believes that with the emergence of young gun Blaize Talagi, Lomax may find himself on the wing at Parramatta too.
“Blaize Talagi now on the scene, Will Penisini… is a centre spot a given? Talagi might never play lower grades again,” said Voss.
“If he excels on Monday… once Brown and Moses are back available then you have to find a sport for him, he might be that good.”