Gould Dismisses “Ridiculous” Burton-Lomax Swap Rumours Amidst Eels Uncertainty
Canterbury Bulldogs’ Director of Football, Phil Gould, has emphatically shut down persistent speculation linking star player Matt Burton to a blockbuster swap deal with the Parramatta Eels. The rumour mill has been in overdrive following the Bulldogs’ strong performance to kick off their 2026 campaign, with Burton’s name frequently mentioned in connection with a move to the Eels, potentially in exchange for their star winger, Zac Lomax.
However, Gould’s direct and unequivocal response on social media to a query about the proposed swap was a simple, yet powerful, “Absolutely ridiculous.” This statement appears to put a decisive end to any immediate possibility of such a trade, although it’s unlikely to quell the ongoing whispers within the rugby league community.
The situation surrounding Zac Lomax is complex. Under the terms of his release from the Eels, Lomax is prohibited from playing for another club until at least 2028, unless he secures the prior written consent of the Parramatta club. This contractual clause has left the former St George Illawarra Dragons and representative star’s future in a state of flux, particularly after his Supreme Court case was settled earlier this week.
Following the court settlement, the Parramatta Eels released a statement indicating their willingness to collaborate with Lomax in finding an alternative pathway for his career. Crucially, any such move would need to offer tangible value to the Eels’ football program.
Potential Scenarios and Squad Dynamics
While Gould has dismissed the Burton-Lomax swap, the Parramatta Eels’ roster situation presents intriguing possibilities. With Jonah Pezet only signed for a single year and slated to depart for Brisbane by the start of the 2027 season, a vacancy in the halves could emerge. This could theoretically pave the way for Matt Burton to partner with Mitchell Moses, forming a formidable halves combination. However, the Eels do have promising young talent progressing through their junior ranks, which could also be considered.
Conversely, Zac Lomax could represent a compelling addition to the Canterbury Bulldogs. While the Bulldogs are not short on options in the outside backs, Lomax could offer an upgrade in that department. His salary would effectively be absorbed, and he would provide another strong option on the wing.
The wing position is not necessarily the most pressing concern for the Bulldogs. However, with the future of Connor Tracey beyond the current season uncertain as his contract expires this year, there’s a prevailing theory that either Lomax or Stephen Crichton could be considered for the fullback role. Lomax’s management has consistently maintained that his initial departure from the Dragons stemmed from assurances of playing fullback, a role he ultimately did not fulfil under coach Shane Flanagan, finding himself instead on the wing. This history might suggest a strong desire on Lomax’s part to secure the number one jersey.
