Roosters lead race to sign Utoikamanu

By the Editorial Team · Thursday, October 22, 2026

The Sydney Roosters have emerged as frontrunners to sign Melbourne Storm prop Stefano Utoikamanu, who is expected to enter the open market next month amid interest from multiple NRL clubs. Securing Utoikamanu would strengthen the Roosters' forward pack and fit into their salary cap strategy as they aim to maintain their competitive edge into the 2028 season.

The Sydney Roosters have positioned themselves as the leading contenders to sign Melbourne Storm front-rower Stefano Utoikamanu, with the Storm facing increasing challenges to retain the star prop beyond next year. Melbourne, however, remains focused on securing several key players, including Utoikamanu, Grant, and five-eighth Cameron Munster, all of whom are set to become free agents.

Melbourne has reportedly extended a contract offer to Munster and is hopeful of keeping its core talent together to maintain the team’s competitive edge. Yet, the Storm’s task of holding onto Utoikamanu is expected to become more difficult if the player enters the open market next month, as several clubs have expressed strong interest. Alongside the Roosters, the list of suitors includes the Dolphins, Gold Coast Titans, St George Illawarra Dragons, and Parramatta Eels.

Utoikamanu is viewed by the Roosters as a key long-term replacement for prop Nelson Asofa-Solomona, who is currently under contract. Known as one of the premier front-rowers in the game, Utoikamanu is anticipated to demand a salary exceeding $1 million per season. The Roosters have factored this financial commitment into their salary cap planning and are aiming to accommodate both Utoikamanu and Dolphins centre Herbie Farnworth in their 2028 squad. Securing Farnworth remains a top priority for the Roosters, who are preparing to leverage salary cap space freed up by the departure of several prominent players from their recent premiership-winning team, including Mark Nawaqanitawase, Daly Cherry-Evans, Angus Crichton, Connor Watson, Daniel Tupou, and Spencer Leniu.

If Utoikamanu joins the Roosters, he could bolster an already strong forward pack featuring Naufahu Whyte, Asofa-Solomona, Salesi Foketi, Siua Wong, and Victor Radley. The Roosters’ approach underscores their intent to remain a dominant force in the NRL over the coming seasons.

Utoikamanu, currently with Tonga’s squad preparing for the Rugby League World Cup, has refrained from contract discussions ahead of the tournament. “There’s nothing to really say about that,” he told media. “I’m just kind of focusing on my footy now, and after this, I’ll sit down with my manager.” His decision will also consider family factors, as he and his partner Chiara have two young children.

Two years ago, Utoikamanu made headlines when he declined a $4 million extension offer from the Wests Tigers to join Melbourne. Now, his performance at the World Cup could further influence his market value and future club destination. Tonga’s team aims to reach their first-ever World Cup final, with Utoikamanu poised to play a significant role.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.