The winger, honored with the Dally M rookie of the year award in 2023 and aiming to transition into a fullback role, has been in talks with the Panthers and other teams lately. According to The Sydney Morning Herald, it’s confirmed that he’ll depart from the Panthers, informing his teammates of his decision to join the Wests Tigers on a three-year contract valued at approximately $1.3 million, averaging around $450,000 annually.
While already a prominent figure in the Fijian national team as a fullback, there have been widespread reports that the St George Illawarra Dragons made the most lucrative offer to Turuva. It was believed that their offer exceeded Penrith’s reported $350,000 proposal by at least $100,000 annually, and also promised him a chance to vie for the starting fullback position, currently held by Tyrell Sloan.
Penrith made efforts to retain Turuva, who currently plays second fiddle to Dylan Edwards for the fullback role, especially with Edwards potentially earning a debut for the New South Wales State of Origin team.
Despite expressing a preference to stay with Penrith, Turuva is driven by the need to support his family and pursue the opportunity to claim the starting fullback spot. Whether the Tigers, led by coach Benji Marshall, would favor him over another talented young player like Jahream Bula for the position remains uncertain.
Notably, Turuva shares family ties with Tigers’ captain Apisai Koroisau and is following Jarome Luai from Penrith to the Tigers.
Penrith’s ability to increase their offer to Turuva was limited due to recent signings and contract upgrades for other outside backs like Taylan May and Izack Tago, as well as existing high-value contracts across their squad. However, they have a pool of promising young players in their system, including NRL-experienced Paul Alamoti, who could step up to fill Turuva’s position next season.
Meanwhile, the Tigers are focused on bolstering their backline, with Turuva expected to slot into the back five alongside players like Jahream Bula and Justin Olam, potentially replacing Junior Tupou, who is set to join the Dolphins at the start of the 2024 season.
