With Wests Tigers hooker Tallyn Da Silva set to become available on the open market from November 1, a growing list of NRL rivals — including the Parramatta Eels — are lining up for his signature.
Considered one of rugby league’s brightest young talents, Da Silva is poised to become a high-demand target amid growing signs that his long-term future may lie away from the Wests Tigers.
While Da Silva is believed to be keen on remaining at Concord, the club’s ongoing contract negotiations with incumbent skipper Apisai Koroisau — who is expected to retain the starting hooker role — are casting doubt on the young dummy-half’s ability to secure regular first-grade game time.
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According to his manager Mario Tartak, five clubs have already flagged strong interest in Da Silva should he formally hit the market — with the Parramatta Eels among them. The Eels are reportedly still eager to bolster their spine after missing out on Da Silva’s former schoolmate and friend, Lachlan Galvin.
“Tallyn loves the Tigers — this isn’t a Lachlan Galvin-type situation,” Tartak told Wide World of Sports. “We can’t talk to clubs just yet, but five have said that if Tallyn becomes available, they’re keen. If Api stays, chances are Tallyn will have to go.”
As of now, Wests Tigers are yet to table a formal offer to keep Da Silva beyond the 2026 season, raising concerns among fans about potentially losing a future star. Nonetheless, Da Silva remains a high retention priority for head coach Benji Marshall and his recruitment team.
The 21-year-old’s looming availability adds further intrigue to an already crowded hooker market set to shift significantly by the end of 2026. Big names such as Blayke Brailey, Damien Cook, Lachlan Croker, Harry Grant, Jacob Liddle, Reed Mahoney, and Sam Verrills are also set to come off contract — though genuine top-tier No.9 options remain in short supply across the league.
With competition heating up and Da Silva’s path at the Tigers uncertain, his future will be closely watched as the November window approaches.
