The Wests Tigers have reportedly signed barnstorming Bulldogs winger Jeral Skelton on a two-year deal beginning next year.
According to The Daily Telegraph, the 25-year-old winger has put pen to paper to a deal reportedly worth $230,000 per season, making him the latest piece in the Tigers’ rebuild puzzle.
A rugby union convert, Skelton joined the Bulldogs in 2022 but has struggled to break into the club’s top 17, with Josh Addo-Carr, Jacob Kiraz and Blake Wilson all ahead of him in the pecking order.
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In limited first grade opportunities, the Redcliffe-born outside back has impressed massively, with his powerful runs out of carry and speed around the outside viewed as two of his greatest strengths.
Across three games this season, Skelton averaged 215 metres, one line break and three tackle breaks, with his breakout game coming in Round 21 against the Broncos when he ran for 286 metres, broke three tackles, made one line break and scored a wonderful try.
Skelton reportedly broke the news to Bulldogs teammates at training on Tuesday, although no official announcement confirming the signing has been made by the Tigers.
The winger’s arrival continues the Tigers rebuild, with CEO Shane Richardson utilising the club’s $2 million war chest to build out their roster.
For next season, the Tigers have lost star young prop Stefano Utoikamanu and edge forward Isaiah Papali’i, with John Bateman also expected to head for the exit door following his mid-season loan at the Warrington Wolves.
However, the club will welcome multiple-time premiership winners Jarome Luai and Sunia Turuva to the club, along with Skelton, to strengthen their leadership, playmaking and ability to start their sets well.
Skelton’s move to the provides Canterbury with the necessary salary cap wiggle room to re-sign Wilson, who is off contract at the end of this season, and Addo-Carr, whose deal expires in 2025.
Addo-Carr told media on Tuesday he wants to stay at Belmore beyond his current deal.
“I took a chance on this club three years ago. Obviously it didn’t pan out straight away and it definitely is going to plan now,” he said.
“I’d like to think that I have helped this club in some sort of way and I’m so proud to be a part of this playing group.
“I’m enjoying footy and life outside of footy as well, that’s probably why I’m so happy.”
Source Agencies
