NRL Transfer Whispers: Xerri Rejected, Bunnies Stall, Warriors Swap & Cowboys Lock Purdue

Multiple National Rugby League (NRL) clubs have publicly denied any interest in Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs centre Bronson Xerri, despite reports suggesting the player is seeking a move after being asked to switch positions.

The St George Illawarra Dragons and Wests Tigers were the first to dismiss speculation linking them to Xerri, and now the Melbourne Storm and Parramatta Eels have also stated they are not pursuing the 25-year-old.

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, Storm officials have not discussed Xerri as a potential transfer target, preferring to focus on signing players who can contribute with goal-kicking. Eels coach Jason Ryles was even more direct, stating, “No, not at all,” when questioned about the club’s interest.

Xerri, who previously played for the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks before a four-year suspension, has been the subject of transfer rumours after being dropped to reserve grade. He scored with his first touch of the ball in that reserve grade match against the Raiders on Saturday.

Despite being under contract with the Bulldogs until the end of 2027, Xerri cannot officially speak with other clubs at this time. However, the recent denials suggest a challenging path for any potential move.

In separate news, the South Sydney Rabbitohs have paused contract negotiations with halfback Jamie Humphreys as they manage their salary cap following the anticipated arrival of forward Payne Haas. The Rabbitohs are attempting to accommodate Haas’s contract without exceeding salary cap limits, leading to a temporary halt in discussions with Humphreys, who arrived from Manly last season.

Should a deal with Humphreys fall through, the Perth Bears are expected to express interest, given his versatility to play in the halves or at hooker. The Rabbitohs also have other halfback options in Toby Sexton, Tyran Wishart, Ashton Ward, Jonah Glover, and Matthew Humphries.

The Warriors are reportedly close to securing a player swap with the Brisbane Broncos as part of the deal sending Mitch Barnett to Red Hill. The Warriors are expected to receive Grant Anderson in return, with negotiations ongoing regarding the financial aspects of the trade. Anderson recently played for the Broncos after Gehamat Shibasaki was dropped.

Finally, the North Queensland Cowboys are poised to secure Jaxon Purdue on a four-year, $3 million extension. Purdue’s manager, Sam Ayoub, confirmed his client’s preference to remain with the Cowboys, despite interest from other clubs including the Storm, Bulldogs, and Bears. Purdue has scored 17 tries in 34 games since his debut in 2024, showcasing his versatility across multiple positions.