Siosiua Taukeiaho is reportedly nearing a return to the NRL, with the Manly Sea Eagles emerging as the frontrunners to sign the former Sydney Roosters forward. Taukeiaho, who left the Roosters after the 2022 season to join the Catalans Dragons in the Super League, struggled with injuries, limiting him to just ten appearances. A brief stint with Catalans ended after he was dismissed for missing training to attend a concert.
After nearly signing with the Canterbury Bulldogs for 2024—only for a failed medical test to halt the move—Taukeiaho entered discussions with several clubs, including the Roosters, Bulldogs, and Sea Eagles. With the Bulldogs reportedly unable to meet his salary demands and talks with the Roosters fizzling out, News Corp now reports that Taukeiaho is set to join Manly.
Taukeiaho is expected to start on a train-and-trial deal, potentially advancing to Manly’s Top 30 squad on a one-year contract in 2025. His addition could significantly boost the Sea Eagles’ forward pack, particularly if he can return to his peak form from his Roosters days. Manly has been building around forward leader Taniela Paseka, and a fit Taukeiaho could complement other forwards like Toafofoa Sipley, Josh Aloiai, and Ethan Bullemor, with Jake Trbojevic continuing at lock.
There remain questions around the status of Taukeiaho’s knee injury, which has impacted his form over the past two years. Manly is also reportedly interested in adding John Bateman from the Wests Tigers, potentially bolstering their forward options even further.
