According to The Sydney Morning Herald, a prominent back-rower has been granted early release by the Roosters and has chosen to commit to a multi-year contract elsewhere.
He has agreed to join Canterbury Bulldogs for the next four years, following Angus Crichton’s recent contract extension at Bondi that led to his departure from the club.
The 27-year-old still had three years left on his contract with the Roosters, who are expected to contribute a portion of his salary as he transitions to Belmore.
Bulldogs agree to terms with Tupouniua on four-year deal after Crichton’s $1.65m pay day https://t.co/tluRqbXiOx pic.twitter.com/9iQedg2TQQ
— Michael Chammas (@MichaelChammas) July 1, 2024
Just a week ago, Bulldogs’ Phil Gould denied negotiations with Tupouniua, who was evidently no longer in the plans at Bondi.
Once considered a top-tier edge forward, Tupouniua faced challenges in recent years, including an ACL injury in 2022 and a serious back injury last season.
The news follows his stint in reserve grade this year due to a surplus of talent under Trent Robinson. Tupouniua has amassed 27 tries in 95 appearances for the Roosters.
As of now, neither club has officially confirmed Tupouniua’s move for the 2025 season.