A young forward in the NRL, who has been tipped to make the move to Super League, has been released in order to pursue a new career opportunity.
Sydney Roosters prop, Xavier Va’a only made his first grade debut earlier this year, as he scored a try in the club’s 42-16 victory over a Cronulla Sharks.
However, he won’t remain at the club for 2026, despite having 12 months left on his current deal.
After reportedly being offered to clubs, Va’a was linked with a move to Super League, with Love Rugby League and All Out Rugby League reporting that the 22-year-old would sign with Wakefield Trinity for the upcoming campaign.
A regular in the reserve grade side at the Roosters, Va’a has played 44 games in the NSW Cup, with 12 of those games coming in the most recent season.
Wakefield, who were one of the first to release their squad numbers this year, purposely left the 26 jersey open, hinting that a new signing would be coming in to fill the spot.
Trinity have lucked out in recent years when it comes to bringing in overseas forwards, and should Va’a make the move to the DIY Kitchens Stadium, would become Daryl Powell’s fourth overseas signing of the off-season.
The statement posted by the Roosters confirming his release reads:
“The Sydney Roosters have today granted Xavier Va’a an immediate release from his playing contract to allow him to pursue an opportunity elsewhere.
“A graduate of the Sydney Roosters Academy, Va’a made a memorable debut in Round 12 of the 2025 NRL season, scoring one of the fastest tries in NRL history just 49 seconds after taking to the field.”
Roosters Head of Recruitment, Joel Carbone, thanked Va’a for his contribution and wished him well for the next chapter of his career.
“Xavier has been a great young man to work with and has handled himself with professionalism throughout his time at the Roosters,” said Carbone.
“We thank him for his efforts in Roosters colours and wish him all the very best for the next chapter of his career,” he added.
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