The Sydney Roosters have rarely shied away from big recruitment swings, and their latest move is already having an effect in Bondi.
Daly Cherry-Evans - a 352-game NRL veteran - is heading to the Tricolours in 2026 with an option that could keep him at the club into 2027.
But while the signing adds a short-term jolt to their premiership chances, it's also placed immediate pressure on their emerging playmakers - particularly 23-year-old Hugo Savala.
MORE: Daly Cherry-Evans signs one-year deal with the Sydney Roosters
According to The Sydney Morning Herald, Savala will now test the open market after learning that Cherry-Evans is officially on the way.
The young half's management has reportedly started sounding out opportunities from 2027 onward.
"I guess I’ve got to consider all options from here, but my primary focus is to start the season well for the club and see where things take me," said Savala.
"I’m sure I can learn a lot from ‘DCE’, and I’m super keen to compete for a spot in the side next season."
Standing at 194 centimetres, Savala is one of the tallest halves in the competition. He has a great kicking game and is solid defensively.
After making his debut against Penrith in Round 2 this past season, he has gone on to play 21 games, forming an exciting partnership with Sandon Smith and then Sam Walker.
His development under Trent Robinson gave Roosters fans the hope that they had locked down their long-term halves combination.
But the arrival of Cherry-Evans changes everything. As Savala himself put it:
"I came through the Roosters’ junior rep program, and I’d love to be a one-club player, but whether or not that happens now, I can’t be sure."
Savala is part of a free agency class which includes the likes of Cameron Munster, Matt Burton, Luke Brooks and Toby Sexton - all available to sign with rivals for 2027.