Young Sydney Roosters prop Xavier Va’a has been offered to Super League clubs ahead of the 2026 season, All Out Rugby League understands.
The 22-year-old progressed through Sydney Roosters’ pathways, having also spent time at Brisbane Broncos as a junior, and made a try-scoring NRL debut against Cronulla Sharks earlier this year in a 42-16 victory.
Va’a has predominantly featured in the New South Wales Cup competition to date, with 44 appearances. He also previously captained Queensland in State of Origin Under 19s.
He is the latest NRL-based player to be offered to Super League clubs, with most sides still having overseas quota spots available. Hull FC and York Knights are the only teams at full capacity for next season, while Castleford Tigers, Catalans Dragons, Leigh Leopards, and Wakefield Trinity each have a single overseas spot remaining.
Despite having a year remaining on his contract, Australian media previously reported that the youngster could be squeezed out of Sydney Roosters a year early due to salary cap pressures, with Super League now a potential option.
Meanwhile, All Out Rugby League understands that Hull KR have identified North Queensland Cowboys versatile forward Karl Lawton as their latest potential new recruit following the departure of Kelepi Tanginoa last week.
Tanginoa, 31, has joined Warrington Wolves on a two-year deal ahead of the 2026 season, opening up salary cap space at Sewell Group Craven Park.
Lawton, able to play hooker, back-row and loose forward, has made more than 100 NRL appearances to date, making his debut with Gold Coast Titans in 2016. He has also represented New Zealand Warriors and Manly Sea Eagles.
As it stands, the Cowboys are yet to agree to Lawton’s release. However, if that stumbling block is overcome, Rovers are confident they can strike a deal to sign the player who has extensive NRL experience.
