Melbourne Storm’s highly rated young halfback Jonah Pezet has become the focus of a mounting NRL transfer scramble, with another club now entering the race to secure his signature.
The race for 22-year-old playmaker Jonah Pezet has heated up, with the Daily Telegraph reporting that the Parramatta Eels have joined the Gold Coast Titans and North Queensland Cowboys in pursuing the young star.
Widely regarded as the heir apparent to Storm halves Cameron Munster and Jahrome Hughes, Pezet is under contract with Melbourne until the end of 2029.
However, Pezet’s path to a regular first-grade spot is blocked by the club’s established halves pairing – Munster until 2029 and Hughes until 2027 – leaving his opportunities in the top squad limited despite his evident talent.
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Over three NRL seasons, the young halfback has featured in 19 games for the Storm, including eight appearances in 2025, mostly from the interchange bench.
Yet his talent shone brightest in Melbourne’s 26-18 qualifying final win over Canterbury, showcasing why he is regarded as one of the game’s most promising young halves.
However, a clause in his contract allows Pezet to explore the open market, giving the young halfback the chance to hold discussions with rival clubs.
Interest in the emerging playmaker has been intense, with three clubs currently pursuing the chance to sign him.
The Canberra Raiders and Newcastle Knights were also in the hunt, but reports suggest both have now stepped back from their pursuit.
The Eels’ interest, reported by the Daily Telegraph, could depend on the potential departure of Zac Lomax, who is reportedly considering a switch to the R360 rugby union competition, set to officially launch in 2026.
If Lomax exits, Parramatta would free up approximately $650,000 per season, totalling around $1.95 million over his remaining three-year contract – potentially enough to accommodate Pezet’s services.