Signings watch: The 'simple' reason why Tigers want Luai out

With Jarome Luai set to leave the Wests Tigers just two years into his five-year deal, Michael Carayannis has named the club in line to secure his signature for 2027.

Having already announced that he’ll join the PNG Chiefs in 2028 in April, the Tigers are now reportedly willing to let the four-time premiership player leave Concord at the end of this season.

This was despite the star five-eighth having committed to play for the merged club in 2027 when signing his deal with the NRL’s 19th side.

With many left wondering why the Tigers would let Luai leave a year early, Carayannis believes there is a simple reason behind their reasoning.  

“Oh (it’s) quite simple, (it’s) salary cap space,” Carayannis told SEN’s Kick Off.

“I think that's what it comes down to. Jarome has made the decision to leave the club at the end of next season.

“He took up his option for next year, and because of the timing of it all, the Tigers had to waive the 10-day cooling-off period when he joined PNG to enable him to take up that option for next season.

“So, they actually did him a favour when he made that decision.

“But I just feel like they've got the Finaus (Latu and Samuela) that they want to re-sign.

“They've identified Latu as potentially the long-term halves partner to Adam Doueihi and this will give him a chance, next season.”

As a result, several clubs have emerged as a potential home for him for next season.

But Carayannis believes that the Eels are the most likely to secure his services.

“I think Parramatta,” he added.

“It looks like that's where all roads will lead to Jarome.

“I think there were some discussions with Penrith, but that hasn't eventuated, and I think you'll find Parramatta's the most likely outcome.

“He doesn't want to move. Obviously, he's got to move to PNG in a year's time but doesn't want to move his family again.

“Perth are definitely keen and see him as a great stopgap solution because they've got the money, they've got the space, and they just haven't landed that marquee, so that would give them 12 more months to land a marquee (signing).

“But I just don't see him going there, given the family dynamic and Parramatta definitely have the cash and a spot available.

Luai will be in action for the Tigers in their clash against the Warriors at Campbelltown.

Kick-off takes place at 8pm AEST on Friday.