Catalans Dragons set to lose another big name player; Tonga international lined up on huge deal
Sio Siua Taukeiaho in action for Tonga against Samoa at the 2021 World Cup, Halliwell Jones Stadium. Photo by Dean Williams / Alamy Stock Photo.
Catalans Dragons look set to lose another star at the end of the year, with forward Sio Siua Taukeiaho linked with an NRL return.
The former New Zealand Warriors man made the switch to Super League ahead of the 2023 campaign from Sydney Roosters, having represented Tonga at last year’s delayed World Cup in England under head coach Kristian Woolf.
The Daily Telegraph journalist Michael Carayanni has reported that Canterbury Bulldogs are lining up a move for Taukeiaho on a $1million deal.
Taukeiaho has one year remaining on his current Catalans deal, with an option for a third season in France.
But the 31-year-old looks set to return Down Under after just one season in Catalans in an injury-hit debut campaign.
He has been limited to just seven appearances in 2023, scoring once for the Perpignan-based side.
It’s another blow to Steve McNamara’s squad, who is set to lose a whole host of players at the end of the year.
Sio Siua Taukeiaho among those to leave Catalans Dragons
Catalans Dragons are preparing for a massive squad overhaul at the end of the season.
Former England skipper Sam Tomkins will hang up the boots at the end of the year due to a knee injury, having made close to 250 Super League appearances to date.
Back-rower Matt Whitley is set to end his five-year stint in France with a reported move to St Helens under Paul Wellens for 2024.
Mitchell Pearce is yet to make a decision on his future, having been linked with a return to Australia with former club Sydney Roosters.
He initially joined on a two-year deal ahead of 2022, with an option of a third season.
Wigan Warriors recently confirmed the signings of Australian utility Adam Keighran on a two-year deal and forward Tiaki Chan on a three-year deal, while Mickael Goudemand will join Leeds at the end of the season.
Utility back Tyrone May could also leave the club at the end of the year.
In good news for the Dragons, veteran hooker Michael McIlorum has reportedly made a decision on his future and is set to go again in 2024 for his 18th Super League season.
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