He has been in negotiations to leave the Sea Eagles recently.
The St George Illawarra Dragons are said to have finalized an agreement to acquire Christian Tuipulotu from the Manly Sea Eagles in a swift transfer.
Speculation about this move emerged late last year, initially hindered by the Sea Eagles’ refusal to allow negotiations for the winger.
However, with Manly having surplus outside backs and uncertainty regarding Tuipulotu’s role amidst signings like Jaxson Paulo and Tommy Talau, they eventually granted him permission to seek a new team a few weeks ago. News Corp now reports that a deal has been struck for Tuipulotu to join the joint-venture.
Tuipulotu’s arrival at the Red V outfit positions him as an immediate contender for first-grade action. The Dragons themselves are grappling with lineup uncertainties as they prepare to kick off their season against the Gold Coast Titans away from home.
Although Mathew Feagai occupied the wing for much of last season, his brother Max and newcomer Sione Finau are also vying for the position. Furthermore, the possibility of Jack Bird shifting to the centres could open up a spot for Zac Lomax on the wing.
Despite having signed Corey Allan, coach Shane Flanagan’s move for Tuipulotu suggests lingering concerns about the Dragons’ depth in the backline. This decision follows the unfortunate loss of Corey Allan to a season-ending knee injury shortly after he began pre-season training with the team in Wollongong.
Tuipulotu, boasting 33 NRL appearances, is believed to have committed to the Dragons until at least the conclusion of the 2025 season, solidifying his place as the final addition to the club’s Top 30 roster for 2024.
Be the first to comment