Cronulla Sharks utility player Siosifa Talakai has indicated that the 2026 season will likely mark his departure from the club, with the newly formed Perth Bears reportedly closing in on securing his signature. Talakai, a versatile performer capable of playing in the second-row, centre, or in the middle of the park, brings valuable State of Origin experience and would undoubtedly add significant power to the Bears’ roster.
The Perth outfit, gearing up for their inaugural season in the NRL in 2027, has already confirmed the signings of 13 players. This initial group is spearheaded by established names such as Nick Meaney, Tyran Wishart, Toby Sexton, Josh Curran, and Liam Henry. However, the potential acquisition of Talakai would represent one of their most impactful signings to date, bolstering their forward stocks considerably.
Speaking on the prospect of a move west, Talakai revealed several compelling factors influencing his decision to consider leaving Cronulla. The primary drivers appear to be salary cap constraints at the Sharks, family considerations, and a lucrative three-year offer presented by the Perth Bears. He expressed his hope to finalise his decision by the end of the current week.
“It’s something my partner and I have been discussing extensively,” Talakai told The Sydney Morning Herald. “We recognise this as a fantastic opportunity, and who wouldn’t want to be part of a new club from its very inception?”
He elaborated on the challenges of remaining with the Sharks, stating, “It’s going to be difficult to finalise a deal here at Cronulla. While I would stay if the opportunity arose, it’s no longer solely about me. The focus has shifted to what is best for myself, my partner, and our family.”
Talakai also conveyed a desire not to impede the development of emerging talent at the Sharks. “I don’t want to stand in the way of any players coming through the ranks,” he affirmed. “I am definitely considering the Perth deal very seriously.”
It is understood that Perth’s incoming coach, the legendary Mal Meninga, has outlined a clear role for Talakai should he make the move to Western Australia, envisioning him primarily as a middle forward. This aligns with the Sharks’ current forward depth, which features a strong contingent of players both in the middle and on the edges.
Salary Cap Pressures and Club Departures
The Sharks are facing significant salary cap pressures, which are also expected to lead to the departure of another key player, William Kennedy, at the conclusion of the current season. The club’s substantial investment in major contracts, including those for Nicho Hynes and Addin Fonua-Blake, coupled with a series of contract extensions and upgrades over the past 18 months, has placed considerable strain on their salary cap. This financial landscape has led to speculation that the 2026 season may represent the culmination of their current premiership window.
Veteran lock forward Cameron McInnes, who is nearing a return from an ACL injury around Round 6, has acknowledged the challenging financial situation within the club. McInnes himself has been mentioned among the players who could potentially be seeking new opportunities elsewhere at the end of the year, underscoring the widespread impact of the salary cap situation on the Sharks’ roster.
The club’s strategic decisions, including the pursuit of marquee players and the retention of existing talent, have inadvertently created a situation where established players like Talakai and potentially Kennedy and McInnes might need to look beyond Cronulla for future employment. This highlights the delicate balancing act NRL clubs must perform to maintain competitiveness while adhering to strict financial regulations. The potential loss of Talakai, a player of his calibre and versatility, would undoubtedly be a blow to the Sharks’ forward depth, particularly as they navigate their salary cap challenges and look to extend their period of contention. The Perth Bears, meanwhile, stand to gain a significant asset in Talakai, further solidifying their ambition to make a strong impact in their debut NRL season.
