Super League outfit Catalans Dragons are set to sign highly-rated young Penrith Panthers forward Zac Lipowicz for 2026, according to reports Down Under.
Lipowicz is yet to make his NRL bow, with the closest he’s come to first-grade action being his involvement in two pre-season friendlies against Canberra Raiders and Manly Sea Eagles earlier this year.
He has though featured 43 times for the Panthers‘ second string in the New South Wales Cup since his debut at that level back in May 2023.
Both of his tries in the NSW Cup to date came in the same game, crossing the whitewash twice in a big win over the Blacktown Workers Sea Eagles last July.
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The 23-year-old also already has international experience on his CV having represented Poland via his heritage.
Lining up against North Macedonia in October 2023, he grabbed a try in a resounding 40-8 win, with that game held in Sydney.
Primarily operating as a back-rower, Lipowicz will offer utility value in the pack when he arrives at the Stade Gilbert Brutus as he’s able to slot into the front-row and at loose.
Australian outlet Zero Tackle have reported that Catalans have offered the youngster a two-year deal spanning 2026 and 2027.
The Dragons – who have been among Super League’s strugglers this season with long-serving head coach Steve McNamara axed – are set for another busy off-season.
14 players are currently off-contract in Perpignan, and that list includes numerous quota players. Half-back Luke Keary isn’t one of those, but is believed to want away following a torrid first campaign in Super League.
On the incoming front, Catalans have already announced the arrival of Canterbury Bulldogs half-back Toby Sexton on a two-year deal from 2026.
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