Melbourne Storm have launched a bold move to sign former Parramatta Eels outside back Zac Lomax, approaching the club about an immediate deal that would see the NSW and Australian representative return to the NRL.
Parramatta have rejected Melbourne’s initial request, standing firm on the conditions attached to the early release they granted Lomax late last season.
It is understood the Storm sought permission in recent weeks to speak directly with the 26-year-old, but the Eels swiftly knocked back the approach, with discussions ongoing according to reports from CODE Sports.
Lomax remains without a contract for the 2026 season despite the Eels retaining his rugby league rights, having released him just 19 games into a four-year deal at the end of last year.
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As part of that agreement, Parramatta stipulated Lomax would not be able to play for another NRL club until his contract expires at the end of 2028, while remaining free to pursue opportunities in other codes.
At the time, Lomax was widely expected to join rebel rugby competition R360, however the league’s delayed launch until at least 2028 has left the star back searching for alternative options.
The Storm’s interest has been fuelled by growing salary cap flexibility following the departures of Ryan Papenhuyzen, Nelson Asofa-Solomona and Jonah Pezet, along with the season-ending injury to Eliesa Katoa.
Lomax has also explored rugby opportunities in Japan, France and the United States, while Super Rugby sides including the Force and Brumbies have shown interest in securing his services.
A switch to rugby in Australia would likely see Lomax earn around $400,000, well below the $700,000 he was due to receive at Parramatta and significantly less than the $850,000 he would have earned had he remained at St George Illawarra.
It is believed the Storm and Eels are still in discussions, with Melbourne pushing to negotiate terms that Parramatta would find more palatable to allow Lomax to return to the NRL, albeit in purple.
The Eels are expected to demand significant compensation, potentially in the form of a player of similar calibre, to even consider allowing Lomax to line up against them in the NRL.
With Melbourne still keen and Lomax eager to resolve his future, the standoff looms as one of the most intriguing player movement stories of the pre-season.
If the Storm manage to secure Lomax’s signature, it would represent a major coup for a club that has lost several experienced stars over the past year and immediately upgrade their already potent attack.