In a significant development for the NRL and Super League, Parramatta Eels winger Maika Sivo has been offered to multiple Super League clubs, with Leeds Rhinos emerging as the frontrunners for his signature. The 32-year-old Fijian international, renowned for his prolific try-scoring ability, has reportedly been given permission by the Eels to explore opportunities abroad, despite having a contract through the 2025 season. Parramatta is even willing to contribute financially to facilitate the move, making Sivo’s transfer to the UK more feasible .
Sivo’s potential move comes at a time when several other Eels players are also transitioning to the Super League. Castleford Tigers have secured the services of outside-back Zac Cini and half-back Daejarn Asi for the 2025 season. Cini, who has spent time in the NRL with Wests Tigers and in the New South Wales Cup with Parramatta, is set to join Castleford on a two-year deal. Asi, a Samoa international, has made 42 NRL appearances and is reportedly in discussions with Castleford, although his destination has yet to be confirmed .
These moves highlight a broader trend of NRL talent heading to the Super League, with 22 players making the switch for the 2025 season. This influx is seen as a strategic effort by Super League clubs to bolster their squads with experienced and high-caliber players from the NRL. For instance, Leeds Rhinos are also in talks with former NRL stars like Nick Cotric and Elliott Whitehead, aiming to strengthen their roster ahead of the new season .
The potential reunification of Sivo with former Eels coach Brad Arthur at Leeds Rhinos adds an intriguing layer to this transfer saga. Arthur, who guided Sivo during his tenure at Parramatta, is now at the helm of Leeds. Sivo’s familiarity with Arthur’s coaching style and systems could ease his transition into the Super League and enhance his impact at Leeds. Discussions between Sivo’s representatives and the Rhinos are reportedly ongoing, with both parties expressing interest in the move .
For the Eels, Sivo’s departure marks the end of an era. Since joining the club in 2019, Sivo has been a standout performer, scoring 104 tries in 115 NRL appearances. His powerful running and finishing abilities have made him one of the most feared wingers in the competition. However, with the emergence of younger talents and a shift in team dynamics under new coach Jason Ryles, the Eels may view this as an opportunity to refresh their roster and integrate new strategies moving forward.
As the 2025 Super League season approaches, the movement of NRL players like Sivo signifies a growing trend of cross-hemisphere transfers. These moves not only impact the clubs involved but also enrich the competitive landscape of the Super League, bringing in fresh talent and raising the profile of the competition. For fans and analysts alike, the coming months will be pivotal in determining how these transitions unfold and what they mean for the future of rugby league on both sides of the globe.
