Kai Pearce-Paul, the England international forward, is poised to leave the Newcastle Knights, with strong indications pointing towards a move to the Wests Tigers for the 2026 NRL season. While his current contract with the Knights runs through the end of 2025, recent developments suggest that an earlier departure is possible.
Pearce-Paul, who joined the Knights in 2024 after a successful stint with the Wigan Warriors, has made 29 appearances in the NRL. His performances have attracted interest from multiple clubs, notably the Wests Tigers and Canberra Raiders. Reports indicate that the Tigers are leading the race for his signature and are exploring the possibility of securing his services before the 2026 season .
The Knights are reportedly facing salary cap pressures, particularly after committing to a substantial contract with Dylan Brown. This financial strain could necessitate roster adjustments, potentially facilitating Pearce-Paul’s early release. Additionally, Newcastle is reportedly interested in re-signing former player Dom Young, who is currently with the Sydney Roosters. Young’s availability and the Knights’ interest could further influence Pearce-Paul’s departure .
Pearce-Paul’s tenure with the Knights has been marked by both promise and challenges. He made his NRL debut in 2024 and played a key role in helping the team reach the finals that year. However, disciplinary issues have also surfaced; notably, he was sin-binned during a match against the Parramatta Eels for a moment of frustration, reflecting the team’s broader struggles during that game .
As the situation unfolds, Pearce-Paul’s potential move to the Wests Tigers could be a significant development in the NRL landscape, impacting both his career trajectory and the strategic plans of the involved clubs.
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