Panthers' Prodigy Defies Rival Clubs; Storm Snaps Up Roosters' Young Talent: Juniors Watch
The Penrith Panthers are set to outmaneuver rival clubs in signing a dual-code prodigy, while the Storm have secured a talented half from the Roosters. Plus, a ray of optimism shines in the Hunter.
Dive into the latest signing news from the NRL pathways!
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Dual-Code Prodigy Defies Union Interest, Stays at Panthers
Charlie Xuereb, a dual-code prodigy, is poised to reject interest from rival teams and rugby union, choosing to stay at the Penrith Panthers. A member of the Under-16s Australian Wallabies squad, multiple sources confirm that Xuereb, off-contract by 2026, is set to sign a multi-year contract extension, keeping him at the foot of the mountains.
This is a significant win for the Panthers, who recently lost young back-rower Heinz Lemoto to Japanese rugby union. Xuereb, an idol of Greg Inglis and Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, is seen as a middle forward. He comes from the Patrician Brothers' Blacktown, a renowned school, and has led them to consecutive Peter Mulholland Cup titles.
Storm Snaps Up Young Roosters Half
The Melbourne Storm have poached a young half from the Sydney Roosters, following the loss of Jonah Pezet and the impending departure of Tyran Wishart to the Perth Bears. Aiming for long-term successors for Cameron Munster and Jahrome Hughes, sources confirm that the club has recruited Josh Durkin from the Sydney Roosters.
Durkin's decision to sign comes after a strong 2025 campaign, where he won the Arthur Beetson Medal (Roosters' Under-21s Best Player) and made two appearances in the NSW Cup reserve grade. Despite the Roosters' desire to retain him, Durkin sat behind Hugo Savala and Under-19s NSW Blues representatives Jake Elliott and Toby Rodwell.
Panthers Extend Services of Promising Middle Forward
The Penrith Panthers have extended the services of promising middle forward Tevita Havili for the next two seasons until 2027. Havili, the cousin of Tongan international and former Rabbitohs utility forward Siliva Havili, is one of the club's hardest workers in their pathways system. He has stepped up his performance throughout the pre-season.
Havili expressed his gratitude to the Panthers for the opportunity and backing. He stated that the club has a great pathway and he's determined to repay their faith through hard work and consistency. Havili's progression through the reps system, inspired by his cousin's journey to the NRL, motivates him to follow the same path.
Newcastle Knights Sign Young Talent
After finishing with the wooden spoon in the NRL last year, the Newcastle Knights have turned to the future, signing young, talented outside back Kai Saric. Primarily used at fullback or on the wing, Saric has speed, power, and strength. He arrives after spending last season with the Northern Rivers Titans in the Under-18s Laurie Daley Cup competition.
Saric is expected to be a regular in the Knights' Under-19s program in 2026. His performance in the Knights SG Ball trial against the Gold Coast Titans was highly impressive, showcasing his lightning speed, dangerous footwork, and strong footy IQ. He can play anywhere across the back five with ease.
