The Sydney Roosters are close to signing Cowboys try machine Murray Taulagi as the replacement for rugby union bound superstar Mark Nawaqanitawase.

The bullocking Taulagi is a very different type of winger to the speedy, crafty Nawaqanitawase.

But they share one trait – the ability to score tries – and that is what is attracting the Roosters’ interest.

READ MORE: Dragons lose big name as rebuild gathers steam

READ MORE: Daley’s selection headache amid Dogs disaster

READ MORE: Piastri named as Red Bull’s Plan B

The 27-year-old winger has scored 70 tries in 115 NRL games for the Cowboys – including a hat trick last-up against the Sharks.

Taulagi is one of the NRL’s most powerful wingers close to the try line and will get plenty of chances to add to his tally in the hot-shot Roosters backline.

TOWNSVILLE, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 24: Murray Taulagi of the Cowboys scores a try during the round eight NRL match between North Queensland Cowboys and Cronulla Sharks at Qld Country Bank Stadium, on April 24, 2026, in Townsville, Australia. (Photo by Ian Hitchcock/Getty Images)

Murray Taulagi dives in for a recent try against the Sharks. Getty

The powerful winger has played his entire NRL career at the Cowboys but is off contract at the end of the season and will make an immediate switch to the Roosters in summer.

The Roosters will field a new-look backline in 2027, with goal kicking centre/winger Reuben Garrick (Sea Eagles) also coming on board.

Nawaqanitawase will be a huge loss and the Roosters have been on the hunt for a suitable replacement for several months.

Watch the 2026 NRL season live and free on Nine and 9Now.