Penrith Panthers have made a bold and controversial move in an attempt to lure Zac Lomax back into the NRL, but Parramatta Eels have firmly pushed back, rejecting any immediate discussions amid the growing uncertainty surrounding the delayed R360 competition.
According to Code Sports, the Panthers approached Parramatta seeking permission to open talks with Lomax over a potential move, targeting a deal for 2026. However, the Eels swiftly rejected the request, citing strict conditions tied to Lomax’s release from the remaining three years of his contract.
Parramatta had previously agreed to let Lomax walk only under the clear condition that he would not sign with another NRL club for the duration of his original deal. That clause has now become the central obstacle as Penrith explore ways to exploit the player’s uncertain future.
Despite the rejection, sources indicate negotiations between the two clubs are not completely dead, with the Panthers still keen on securing the services of the former Blues and Kangaroos star. Crucially, Parramatta retain Lomax’s NRL rights for the next three seasons, meaning any return to the league would require Eels approval.
Lomax’s situation has become increasingly complicated following the postponement of the rebel R360 rugby union competition, initially scheduled for October 2026 but now delayed until 2028. The 26-year-old had committed to the breakaway code, only to see his plans unravel.
A switch to Super Rugby has also stalled. Offers from the Western Force and ACT Brumbies failed to progress after Rugby Australia refused to guarantee a top-up to Lomax’s reported $400,000 state contract.
The financial sacrifice has been significant. Lomax walked away from a $700,000-per-season deal at Parramatta, leaving him $2.1 million out of pocket over three years. He had also previously turned down an $850,000 contract with the Dragons to join the Eels on a long-term deal.
Fans have been quick to react. Parramatta supporters largely back the club’s hard stance, with one fan writing, “We protected ourselves legally. Why help a rival now?” Another added, “Penrith always try these sneaky moves — good on the Eels for saying no.”
Panthers fans, however, are frustrated. “If he’s free, let us talk to him,” one supporter argued online, while another said, “Lomax in our system would be scary — worth the fight.”
On the field, Lomax’s value is unquestionable. Since debuting in 2018, he has scored 58 tries, kicked 368 goals in 133 NRL games, and represented New South Wales and Australia at the highest level.
As the contract chaos continues, one thing is clear: Zac Lomax remains one of the most sought-after — and complicated — figures in Australian rugby league right now.
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