St George Illawarra Dragons back-rower Jaydn Su'a has firmly shut down rumours linking him with an early move to the Parramatta Eels, stating his full focus remains on the Red V for the remainder of the 2024 NRL season. The 26-year-old, who is off-contract at the end of the year, has been the subject of widespread speculation that he could depart the club ahead of the June 30 transfer deadline.
Su'a commits to Dragons
Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Su'a made it clear he has no intention of seeking an early release from his current deal. 'I'm a Dragon, and I'm fully committed to this club and my teammates for the rest of the year,' he said. 'There's been a lot of talk, but that's all it is – talk. My focus is on playing good footy and helping this team win games.'
The hard-hitting forward has been one of the Dragons' most consistent performers this season, averaging over 100 running metres per game and providing a physical presence in the back row. His form has attracted interest from several clubs, including the Eels, who are believed to be keen to bolster their forward pack for a finals push.
Contract situation
Su'a's current contract expires at the end of the 2024 season, and negotiations over an extension have been ongoing. While the Dragons are eager to retain his services, the player has not yet put pen to paper on a new deal. However, Su'a insisted that his contract status is not a distraction. 'I've got a great manager handling all that stuff, and I trust him to work things out. For me, it's just about playing footy and enjoying my time here.'
The Dragons have endured a mixed season so far, sitting mid-table on the NRL ladder. Su'a's leadership and experience have been invaluable to a relatively young squad, and his commitment to seeing out the season will be a boost to coach Shane Flanagan's plans.
Eels' interest
Reports emerged last week that Parramatta had sounded out Su'a's management about a potential mid-season switch, with the Eels looking to add depth to their second-row stocks. However, the player's latest comments suggest any such move is off the table for now. 'I'm not going anywhere. I've got a job to do here, and I'm going to do it to the best of my ability.'
Su'a's stance will come as a relief to Dragons fans, who have seen several key players depart the club in recent years. His physical style of play and ability to break the line make him a valuable asset, and retaining him for the remainder of the season could be crucial to the Dragons' hopes of sneaking into the finals.
Looking ahead
With the June 30 deadline looming, Su'a's future beyond this season remains uncertain. But for now, the Queensland-born star is focused solely on the task at hand. 'We've got a big game this weekend against the Warriors, and that's all I'm thinking about. We need to get our season back on track, and I want to be a part of that.'
The Dragons will face the New Zealand Warriors at WIN Stadium on Saturday, with Su'a expected to play a key role in the clash. His commitment to the club, at least for the short term, provides stability as the team looks to build momentum in the second half of the season.
