ESPN CONFIRMED: Parramatta Eels secure a (Versatile center) blockbuster deal from Gold Coast Titans as Zac Lomax replacement…..

In a stunning recruitment coup that has sent shockwaves across the NRL landscape, the Parramatta Eels have secured the signature of Gold Coast Titans centre Brian Kelly, with ESPN reporting the deal as officially done. The move positions Kelly as the direct replacement for outgoing star Zac Lomax, who departs the club after the 2024 season.

A Strategic Strike by the Eels

With Lomax’s exit leaving a major gap in Parramatta’s backline, the Eels were under pressure to find a strike centre with experience, creativity, and consistency. Kelly—renowned for his footwork, agility, and ball-playing ability—quickly emerged as the club’s top target.

Sources close to the Eels’ recruitment team say negotiations accelerated rapidly over the past two weeks, culminating in an agreement described internally as “one of the club’s most important signings of the decade.”

Why Kelly?

At 29, Kelly brings significant NRL experience, having been a key figure for the Titans across multiple seasons. His ability to create opportunities on the edge and break the line with explosive acceleration makes him a natural fit within Parramatta’s attacking structures.

Coaches inside the club reportedly believe that Kelly’s skillset will complement the playmaking of Mitchell Moses and Dylan Brown, giving the Eels a dangerous new look on their left edge.

Impact on the Titans

Kelly’s departure marks a notable shift for the Gold Coast Titans, who are in the midst of long-term roster restructuring. While the club had hoped to retain the dynamic centre, Parramatta’s offer—and Kelly’s desire for a fresh challenge—ultimately sealed the move.

The Titans are now expected to elevate younger talent into the starting role or target a replacement in the upcoming transfer window.

Eels Fans React

Parramatta supporters have lit up social media with excitement, calling Kelly’s arrival a “perfect swap” for Lomax’s departure. Many fans highlight Kelly’s durability and experience as key positives, along with his reputation as a strong defensive centre—an area the Eels have been eager to reinforce.

Looking Ahead

With Kelly set to join preseason training later this year, anticipation is building for how he will shape the Eels’ backline in 2025. Club insiders believe his presence could help rejuvenate Parramatta’s attacking cohesion and provide the spark needed to push deeper into finals contention.

As the dust settles on this blockbuster switch, one thing is clear: Parramatta have made a statement. Brian Kelly’s arrival marks a bold new chapter for the club—and a major storyline to watch in the upcoming NRL season.