A prominent sponsor of the Wests Tigers is urging the club to lock down emerging NRL sensation Lachlan Galvin on a record-breaking 10-year deal. Galvin, just 19 years old, has been hailed as the best new talent in the NRL in 2024, and the push to secure his long-term future comes with a sense of urgency.
The Tigers’ rising star is currently under contract for two more seasons, but rival clubs will be able to approach him next year, sparking concern within the Tigers’ camp. Businessman Frank Micali, a lifelong Tigers fan who runs a successful gourmet doughnut franchise in Sydney, is determined to prevent the club from losing yet another talented player to wealthier teams.
“I’m sick and tired of seeing the Tigers produce these great kids and then lose them to cashed-up clubs,” Micali told Wide World of Sports. “Lachlan is a once-in-a-generation player, and a great kid I’ve known since his days at Westfields Sports High School.”
Micali has even offered to step in with a third-party sponsorship to help the Tigers reach a lucrative deal with Galvin’s management. He hopes the club will take swift action to secure the young star’s future, stating, “They can build a team around Lachlan that can challenge for the premiership.”
Galvin’s potential departure had already caused a stir earlier this year when rumors circulated that he might head to Penrith after the Tigers signed Panthers star Jarome Luai. While Penrith eventually signed rising Eels utility Blaize Talagi, concerns remain about other clubs targeting Galvin next year.
This situation highlights the Tigers’ ongoing struggle to retain top talent, despite the club’s commitment to building a competitive roster.
