Parramatta Eels Target Newcastle Star Bradman Best

The Eels are pursuing a deal to sign the Knights centre ahead of the 2027 NRL season.

Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Football

Parramatta Eels Target Newcastle Star Bradman Best

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The Parramatta Eels have identified Newcastle Knights centre Bradman Best as a primary recruitment target. The club is working to secure the representative star as they look to strengthen their backline for the 2027 campaign.

Why it matters

Parramatta is aiming to bolster their squad with an established representative talent to improve their competitiveness. Meanwhile, Canterbury has opted to prioritise internal development over external halfback acquisitions.

Parramatta is targeting Bradman Best for a 2027 roster spot, competing against Newcastle's efforts to retain the centre. At Canterbury, Mitch and Alex Conti are competing for the No.7 jersey in an internal offseason battle.

The players

Bradman Best

He is an established centre currently playing for the Newcastle Knights.

Parramatta Eels

This is a professional rugby league club based in Parramatta that competes in the NRL.

Canterbury Bulldogs

This is a prominent Sydney-based professional rugby league team that competes in the NRL.

Newcastle Knights

This is a professional rugby league team representing the Newcastle region in the NRL.

The details

Parramatta has made Bradman Best a priority target in their search for an elite backline player. The Canterbury Bulldogs have officially turned their attention away from halfback Sam Walker, choosing instead to back their current internal options.

The NRL player market officially opens on 1 November 2026.
Roster changes discussed are specifically for the 2027 season.

Season Trajectory

This move marks the beginning of the annual roster-shaping phase that defines the competitive balance of the NRL. By targeting a representative star, Parramatta is attempting to shift their trajectory following the opening of the official player market.

The Parramatta Eels are actively reshaping their 2027 backline, which could lead to significant changes in their starting team composition. Canterbury supporters should expect the No.7 jersey battle between Mitch and Alex Conti to remain a key focal point throughout the upcoming offseason.

The takeaway

Clubs often shift their focus toward long-term roster stability during the early stages of the player market. Fans should monitor official club announcements as teams finalise their squads ahead of the 2027 season.