When the Roosters announced the arrival of Daly Cherry-Evans last month, many believed it marked the end of Hugo Savala's career in the eastern suburbs.
Rumours immediately began swirling, and with the promise he showed in his NRL debut season as a starting five-eighth, several clubs started circling.
Against all of that, the Roosters have remained steadfast, with Savala on contract through 2026, and coach Trent Robinson speaking glowingly about the youngster.
In a stunning turn of events, it is now being reported that Hugo Savala is set to not only remain at the Sydney Roosters, rejecting interest from rival clubs, but has agreed to commit to a new two-year deal according to the Courier Mail.
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The 23-year-old had explored options after the Roosters signed Manly star Daly Cherry-Evans, but sources say he is determined to stay and fight for a spot in the club’s top 17.
Savala’s role in next season’s lineup is uncertain, with Cherry-Evans and Sam Walker expected to start in the halves, while utility Connor Watson has also been added until the end of 2027.
The Roosters are exploring options for Savala, who could become a utility if Watson starts at lock, or move into the forward rotation thanks to his prior experience in lower grades and the size to make the transition.
Cherry-Evans, 36, has not yet committed beyond 2026, which could give Savala a clearer path back into the starting halves in future seasons.
Standing 194cm tall, Savala can play both halfback and five-eighth and had been linked to the Perth Bears, North Queensland Cowboys, and Canberra Raiders before ruling out a move.
A local junior who attended Scots College, Savala said earlier this year, “I know I’m an NRL halfback.” Friends and teammates say Savala sees an opportunity to learn from Cherry-Evans and further develop his game over the next year.
“I love Hugo and his attitude, he wants to stay at the club. He’s a local junior and he exceeded a lot of expectations last year with how he played,” Roosters captain James Tedesco said.
Savala enjoyed a breakout 2025 season, playing 21 games and jumping ahead of Sandon Smith and Chad Townsend to claim a starting halves spot.
He was part of a Roosters side that exited the finals in week one but impressed with his maturity, impact in the halves, and especially his kicking game.
Formal confirmation of Savala’s extension is expected next week, as the Roosters’ senior stars and coach Trent Robinson are currently trekking the Kokoda Trail.
Savala’s commitment is a coup for the Roosters and will now put to bed any talk that the Cherry-Evans signing would cost the club one of their brightest young prospects.