Former Wigan Warriors standout Kai Pearce-Paul is making headlines yet again, as the 23-year-old prepares to test his value on the open market this November. This revelation has sent shockwaves through the Newcastle Knights, where Pearce-Paul has played since his move ahead of the 2024 NRL season. With his current contract set to expire at the end of 2025, Pearce-Paul’s decision to explore his market worth could signal significant changes for the Knights, who have already suffered the loss of another star, Daniel Saifiti, to the Dolphins.
Having built his reputation in the Super League, Pearce-Paul quickly became one of the most promising English talents in the rugby league. His journey to stardom began with the London Broncos, before making a high-profile switch to Wigan, where he made an impressive 61 appearances. Pearce-Paul’s role in Wigan’s 2023 Super League Grand Final victory cemented his status as a powerhouse in the back-rower position, with his blend of size, athleticism, and versatility drawing comparisons to some of the game’s elite.
Pearce-Paul’s arrival in the NRL at Newcastle was met with much excitement, as he brought a dynamic presence to their forward pack. Despite this, News Corp has revealed that he intends to explore his options in the market. The expectation is that he could attract offers exceeding $600,000, making him one of the hottest properties in the rugby league world. This comes at a time when the Knights are already facing mounting pressure following a series of roster shake-ups, with Pearce-Paul’s potential departure adding to their concerns.
The rangy back-rower is reportedly eager to assess his value and consider offers both within Australia and potentially from back home in the UK. With his combination of skills and his age, Pearce-Paul is viewed as a long-term investment, which makes him an attractive prospect for any club looking to bolster their forward pack. Given his upward trajectory, it’s clear that a bidding war could emerge as several clubs vie for his signature.
For Newcastle, Pearce-Paul’s decision to enter the market underscores the challenges facing the club in retaining top talent. The Knights have already witnessed the departure of key players, and the potential loss of Pearce-Paul would further diminish their strength in the forward ranks. As one of the NRL’s rising stars, his exit could be a major blow, especially considering the pivotal role he’s expected to play in the coming seasons.
Pearce-Paul’s move will undoubtedly fuel further speculation about his next destination. As one of the most highly sought-after players, he is expected to attract significant interest from clubs in both the NRL and Super League, with the potential for a record-breaking deal.