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Wests Tigers have won the race for Terrell May, beating a host of suitors after the in-demand prop was unexpectedly told he was surplus to requirements at the Sydney Roosters.
May joins the Tigers on a three-year deal, adding to a burgeoning list of high-profile recruits signed by the NRL wooden spooners for 2025.
“I’m really excited about this opportunity, and I can’t wait to get stuck into pre-season,” he said on Monday.
“This is a club with a very bright future, and I want to be a big part of that future.
“I know quite a few of the boys really well and they all speak fondly of the club and its people.”
The 25-year-old forward was told to find another club by the Roosters in October, despite being the only player to feature in all 27 games for them in 2024 and earning selection in the Rugby League Players’ Association team of the season.
The news came as a shock to those close to May, given he had signed a two-year contract extension with the Tricolours just six months earlier.
May rubbished speculation his release was a result of off-field behaviour, with talk turning to suggestions the Samoa international was an unfortunate victim of the Roosters freeing up salary cap space to rebalance their forward-heavy squad.
“Terrell is not only a talented footballer, but also a good person,” Roosters head of recruitment Daniel Anderson said.
“Terrell will always remain part of our Sydney Roosters family, and he leaves with our very best wishes for the future.”
May made 53 NRL appearances for the Roosters, debuting in 2022.
In a post on social media, May thanked the club for giving him an opportunity to fulfil his childhood dream.
“I’ve been blessed to make bonds and friendships that I’ll cherish forever,” he said.
“Thank you to everyone who has played a role in my journey so far. On to the next.”
Canterbury and St George Illawarra had also been in the hunt for May, but the Tigers became front-runners for his signature when the Bulldogs reportedly withdrew their interest at the weekend.
The signing is another major fillip for Benji Marshall.
The former Tigers five-eighth had a difficult rookie season as an NRL head coach as his side finished bottom of the table for the third season in a row.
But hopes are high Marshall can turn around the club’s fortunes with an exciting roster at his disposal, following the additions of four-time championship-winning playmaker Jarome Luai and winger Sunia Turuva from Penrith, Cronulla front-rower Royce Hunt and Dragons centre Jack Bird.
“Terrell is a good person first and foremost, and it’s great that he will be joining us,” Marshall said.
“He’s coming off an impressive season, and at 25, his best years are ahead of him.”
with AAP
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