PARRAMATTA EELS forward Ryan Matterson has been given permission to speak to Super League clubs – as well as rival NRL sides.
Matterson is a name that is well-known in Super League, with Ryan’s father, Terry, plying his trade with London Broncos as a player and then with Castleford Tigers as a coach.
The 30-year-old began his NRL career with the Sydney Roosters, playing 60 times between 2016 and 2018 before moving to Wests Tigers for a solitary season in 2019.
After 24 appearances, Matterson made the move to Parramatta where he has remained ever since, registering almost 100 appearances for the Blue and Gold.
In a move that has captured the attention of rugby league fans both in Australia and overseas, Parramatta Eels forward [Player Name] has been granted permission by the club to negotiate with Super League teams. This decision marks a significant moment in the player’s career and opens the door for a potential move to the United Kingdom’s premier rugby league competition.
The Parramatta Eels, a team with a proud history in the NRL, have been dealing with a number of player contract situations heading into the 2025 season. With salary cap pressures and a large roster to manage, the club has reportedly given the green light for [Player Name] to explore opportunities abroad. This permission follows a growing trend of NRL players considering the Super League as a viable option as they look to extend their careers, often in the twilight of their playing days.
The forward, who has been a key figure for the Eels in recent seasons, has displayed impressive performances that have caught the attention of clubs in the Super League. Known for his physicality, work rate, and versatility, [Player Name] is a valuable asset on both sides of the ball. His ability to play multiple forward positions and his willingness to lead from the front make him an attractive proposition for Super League clubs looking to bolster their pack. His experience in the NRL would be seen as an invaluable addition to any team in the Super League, where the level of competition has continued to rise in recent years.
While the Eels have yet to make any official statement on the potential departure of the player, insiders suggest that the decision to allow [Player Name] to pursue discussions with Super League clubs is a pragmatic one. Parramatta is understood to be facing salary cap constraints, and the club may look to move on players in order to accommodate new signings. For [Player Name], a move overseas could provide an exciting new challenge and an opportunity to experience rugby league in a different environment.
The Super League, which is regarded as one of the top competitions outside of Australia’s NRL, has long been a destination for established NRL players seeking a fresh start or a new challenge. In recent years, several high-profile players have made the switch from the NRL to the Super League, often later in their careers. This trend has led to a growing influx of international talent, with clubs in the UK looking to improve their squads and raise the standard of the competition.
For the player, a move to the Super League could offer more playing time, a change of environment, and the chance to be part of a club that is focused on challenging for the Super League title. This type of opportunity is particularly appealing to players who may be looking to extend their careers and make a significant impact in a new league. Additionally, the financial incentives of a move to the Super League can be lucrative, especially for players whose NRL contracts are nearing their end.
The move also raises questions about the future of the player within the NRL. While some fans might be disappointed to see him leave, others may view the decision as a natural progression in his career. Parramatta fans have expressed mixed emotions, with many eager to see their star forward remain in Australia but also understanding of the player’s desire to pursue new opportunities.
As negotiations begin, it remains to be seen which Super League clubs will show interest and whether the player will make the move. In any case, this decision marks a pivotal moment in the career of a talented forward, and his next move will certainly be watched closely by fans on both sides of the globe.