The Parramatta Eels have reportedly given skipper and fullback Clinton Gutherson the green light to negotiate with rival teams after informing him that an extension will not be offered. Ongoing injury issues, the hiring of Jason Ryles as head coach, and the recruitment of Isaiah Iongi from the Penrith Panthers have all contributed to the speculation surrounding Gutherson’s future.
Recent reports indicate that Gutherson and his manager met with Ryles and Eels GM of Football Mark O’Neill to discuss his prospects, as he is still under contract until the end of the 2025 season. The Sydney Morning Herald now states that Gutherson has been granted permission to explore opportunities with other teams, making him a prominent free agent in the market.
The St George Illawarra Dragons have shown strong interest in Gutherson and have previously expressed a desire to bring him to their squad. If this move happens, it would create a formidable backline featuring Tyrell Sloan, Moses Suli, and Valentine Holmes, particularly after the departure of Kangaroos and NSW Blues winger Zac Lomax to the Eels.
Jason Ryles has mentioned a potential shift in Gutherson’s position with the arrival of Iongi, seeing him as “good coverage for all positions on the field, especially among our backs, and even at 13 and 9.” This indicates that Ryles values Gutherson’s versatility and experience as they look to reshape the team.
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