Jarome Luai’s move to the PNG Chiefs has already reshaped the NRL player market. Now Paul Gallen believes rugby league shouldn’t stop there, arguing the code should be doing everything possible to lure even more elite talent away from rugby union.
The former Sharks captain says Luai’s signing proves the NRL has become a genuine destination for athletes from rival codes and believes Rugby Australia should be concerned about what’s coming next.
Luai signed a lucrative deal earlier this year to become the marquee player for the PNG Chiefs when the expansion club enters the NRL in 2028.
Last week, it was confirmed the Wests Tigers and Luai had agreed to part ways at the end of the 2026 season, opening the door for Parramatta to pursue the four-time premiership winner for 2027 before his move to Papua New Guinea.
Speaking on Nine’s 100% Footy, Gallen said the NRL should continue targeting rugby union’s biggest names.
NRL MATCH CENTRE: View stats, odds, betting insights, team lists and tips here
According to Nine, Gallen believes the success of former Wallaby Mark Nawaqanitawase at the Sydney Roosters has shown how quickly elite union players can transition to rugby league.
“I’d be going after more rugby players.”
Gallen argued the NRL now has both the financial strength and the on-field appeal to attract athletes who may once have automatically chosen rugby union. His comments came as discussions continue over a unique short-term extension that could allow Nawaqanitawase to remain in rugby league long enough to represent Australia at this year’s Rugby League World Cup before departing for Japanese rugby.
Luai’s decision to become the inaugural superstar signing for the PNG Chiefs has also highlighted the financial muscle behind the league’s newest franchise.
The Chiefs are expected to enter the competition in 2028 with significant government backing and have already secured Luai and veteran winger Alex Johnston as foundation signings, while continuing to chase several other marquee players.
For Rugby Australia, Gallen’s comments represent another reminder of the increasing battle between the two codes.
The NRL has enjoyed notable success convincing high-profile union players to switch in recent years, with Nawaqanitawase’s impressive debut season strengthening the belief that more cross-code recruits can thrive in rugby league.
Whether that trend continues remains to be seen.
But Gallen believes the NRL shouldn’t simply celebrate Luai’s move to Papua New Guinea.
He believes it should use the momentum to become even more aggressive in recruiting the best athletes available—regardless of which code they currently play.
NRL MATCH CENTRE: View stats, odds, betting insights, team lists and tips here
