The Perth Bears have continued their aggressive squad build ahead of their inaugural 2027 campaign, securing the signature of damaging forward Siosifa Talakai.
Currently with the Cronulla Sharks, Talakai will join the Bears until the end of 2029, becoming the club’s 15th confirmed signing as they prepare to kick off in just 12 months’ time.
Proven NRL Experience
Talakai has been a key figure for Cronulla since arriving in 2020, going on to make 122 appearances for the club. Known for his powerful ball running and versatility across the back-row and centres, the 28-year-old has developed into one of the competition’s most damaging edge weapons.
His career-best form was rewarded in 2022 when he earned selection for New South Wales Blues, representing his state on two occasions during that year’s State of Origin series.
Before his stint in the Shire, Talakai began his NRL journey with the South Sydney Rabbitohs, playing 11 matches between 2016 and 2017.
Statement Signing for the Forward Pack
Talakai’s arrival adds size, explosiveness and representative pedigree to Perth’s forward stocks. With the club assembling a balanced roster of youth and established NRL performers, his signing signals clear intent that the Bears are aiming to be competitive from day one.
The 2027 newcomers have steadily built one of the more intriguing expansion rosters in recent memory, locking in long-term deals for key players across the spine and pack.
Perth Bears – Confirmed Signings (Current)
- Tyran Wishart – until end of 2031
- Liam Henry – until end of 2030
- Sean Russell – until end of 2030
- Josh Curran – until end of 2029
- Nick Meaney – until end of 2029
- Toby Sexton – until end of 2028
- Harry Newman – until end of 2028
- Luke Smith – until end of 2028
- Emarly Bitungane – until end of 2028
- Iszac Fa’asuamaleaui – until end of 2028
- James McDonnell – until end of 2028
- Chris Vea’ila – until end of 2028
- Luke Laulilii – until end of 2028
- Scott Sorensen – until end of 2028
- Siosifa Talakai – until end of 2029
With Talakai now on board, the Bears’ 2027 squad is beginning to take serious shape — and with further recruitment expected in the coming months, their debut season looms as one of the most anticipated in recent NRL history.
Related
- 2026 NRL: Squads and Player Movements https://rugbyleaguezone.com/2026-nrl-squads-and-player-movements-392225/
- Perth Bears Expansion
