Super League Giants Catalans Dragons Eyeing Marquee Signing of NRL Superstar Dallin Watene-Zelezniak
The Super League heavyweights, the Catalans Dragons, are reportedly set to make a concerted effort to sign New Zealand rugby league star Dallin Watene-Zelezniak for the 2025 season. Watene-Zelezniak, one of the most recognizable and high-profile players in the NRL, is still under contract with the New Zealand Warriors next season, but the Dragons are said to be putting a strong emphasis on securing a deal.
According to the Wide World of Sports report, the Dragons are targeting a three-year contract for the 28-year-old Watene-Zelezniak as they look to add another marquee name to their roster for 2025 and beyond. With over 200 appearances at the highest level since his debut in 2014 with the Penrith Panthers, Watene-Zelezniak has also featured for the Canterbury Bulldogs and the Warriors in the NRL, and could now be making the move to the Super League.
Focusing on Watene-Zelezniak After Missing Out on Daniel Tupou
The Dragons were also reportedly interested in securing a deal for Sydney Roosters star Daniel Tupou, but he now looks set to remain with the Roosters in 2025. This has led the French club to focus their attention on Watene-Zelezniak. As a source from the Catalans club told Wide World of Sports, “Now Tupou has re-signed with the Roosters, we will be going all out for Watene-Zelezniak.“
Watene-Zelezniak’s international experience, with 13 appearances for the New Zealand national team and participation in the 2017 and 2022 World Cups, further enhances his appeal for the Dragons as they look to strengthen their roster for the future.
Significant Overhaul Underway at Catalans
The Catalans are set to undergo a significant overhaul next season, with the departures of several key players, including forward Mike McMeeken to Wakefield Trinity and wingers Tom Johnstone and Tom Davies to other Super League clubs. This rebuild could include a substantial and cash-heavy deal for the high-profile Watene-Zelezniak, if the reports from Down Under are to be believed.
“Now Tupou has re-signed with the Roosters, we will be going all out for Watene-Zelezniak.”
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