Storm Players Parramatta Wants: Lomax Trade Targets
Eels Demand Trade for Lomax as Storm Pursue Deal
The Parramatta Eels are seeking Xavier Coates, Stefano Utoikamanu, or Jack howarth in exchange for releasing Zac Lomax to the Melbourne Storm, according to reports. Lomax,initially granted a release in November 2025 to perhaps join the now-delayed Rugby 360 competition,is currently unable to sign with another NRL club without Parramatta’s approval.
Lomax received an immediate release from the Eels on November 16, 2025, anticipating a move to Rugby 360. though, the launch of the rival competition has been postponed until 2028. As reported by the Sydney Morning Herald, a condition of his release stipulated he couldn’t join another NRL team without the Eels’ consent.
Parramatta Eels Chief Executive Jim Sarantinos stated on Thursday, January 15, 2026, that he believes the Eels should not be negatively impacted by the situation.”I don’t see why we should be disadvantaged in that situation,” Sarantinos said.
The Melbourne Storm have already released Will warbrick, effective instantly, on January 15, 2026, to create roster space. The Sydney Morning Herald reported this move as potentially clearing the way for Lomax’s acquisition.