Manly Sea Eagles make key signings with Luke Brooks, Paulo and Talau

June 27, 2023 4:10 am.by Staff Writer

Manly Sea Eagles have made some significant announcements regarding their player roster. They have officially secured Luke Brooks on a long-term deal, extending for four years. In addition, they have also signed Jaxson Paulo from the Sydney Roosters and Tommy Talau from the Wests Tigers. Both Paulo and Talau will join the club in 2024, with Paulo signing a three-year contract and Talau committing for two years. Furthermore, the Sea Eagles have re-signed Tolu Koula, who will remain with the team until the end of 2027.

Luke Brooks, aged 28, has an impressive record of 202 NRL games since his debut for the Wests Tigers in 2013. Manly coach Anthony Seibold expressed his confidence in Brooks, praising his skills as a quality halfback and former Dally M halfback of the year. Seibold highlighted Brooks’ exceptional left foot kicking game and running ability, believing that he will enhance the team’s existing spine players.

Jaxson Paulo, aged 23, has amassed 54 NRL matches, scoring 25 tries, during his stints with the South Sydney Rabbitohs and the Sydney Roosters. Known for his skill and speed as an exciting young winger, Paulo notably participated in the 2021 NRL Grand Final with South Sydney and has represented Samoa at the international level. Seibold acknowledged Paulo’s experience and consistent performances, particularly in his standout year of 2021, expressing optimism about his potential for further growth.

Tommy Talau, also aged 23, has played 44 matches for the Wests Tigers since his NRL debut against Manly in 2019, scoring 19 tries. Seibold closely monitored Talau’s progress over the years and commended his aggression, power, and skill. Although Talau missed the entire 2022 season due to injury, Seibold believes that he has displayed his capabilities this year and is confident in his ability to contribute to the team’s outside backs.

Seibold emphasized the competition for spots that Paulo and Talau’s signings would create within the team, aiming to foster consistent performances as a collective. He stated that the quality and depth of the outside backs would be further enhanced by their arrival.

Regarding Tolu Koula, the 20-year-old centre who made his NRL debut for Manly Sea Eagles last year, Seibold expressed his satisfaction with Koula’s progress and the positive impact he has made. Having witnessed Koula’s development from his junior years in the Harold Matthews and SG Ball teams, Seibold highlighted his improvement and potential. With Koula’s contract extension, the club eagerly anticipates witnessing his continued growth and best performances on the field.

With all the newest signings not arriving until 2024 the Manly Sea Eagles odds to win the 2023 NRL Premiership have not changed from $223 with the top NRL betting sites.

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