Richardson Slams NRL Over Lack of Transfer Window Amid Galvin Saga
Wests Tigers CEO Shane Richardson has launched a scathing attack on the NRL’s player transfer system, calling it “an absolute disgrace” that the league has yet to implement a designated transfer window.
Richardson is currently trying to resolve the situation involving Lachie Galvin, whose agent raised concerns over the young playmaker’s development under coach Benji Marshall. As a result, Galvin declined a long-term contract extension and plans to leave the club at the end of 2025.
Speaking on The Bye Round podcast, Richardson voiced his long-standing frustration: “I’ve been saying it for years—it’s a joke that we don’t have a transfer window. It would fix so many problems. Every other major sport has one, but we still haven’t figured it out.”
He continued, “Managers don’t hesitate to move players mid-season, regardless of the costs or disruption to families. A formal transfer period wouldn’t stop movement completely, but at least it would bring structure to it.”
Despite the off-field drama, Galvin has been recalled to the starting side in the No.6 jersey for the Tigers’ clash against Cronulla on Sunday at Leichhardt Oval, just a week after being demoted to the NSW Cup.
There are also fears among Tigers fans that Galvin’s agent, Isaac Moses, may influence young fullback Jahream Bula to exit the club amid ongoing tensions with Marshall. However, Richardson dismissed the speculation. “I’m not worried at all. It’s a totally different case, a different player. People are just looking for a headline.”
Manly Up the Ante in Fogarty Chase
Meanwhile, the competition for Jamal Fogarty’s signature is heating up. Manly have sweetened their offer to the experienced halfback by adding a third year to their deal, hoping to outbid Canberra for the 31-year-old.
Raiders coach Ricky Stuart has tabled a two-year extension in hopes Fogarty will remain and mentor rising talents Ethan Strange and Ethan Sanders. However, Manly’s deal—reportedly worth over $2 million across three seasons—dwarfs the Raiders’ $1.2 million offer.
With veteran Daly Cherry-Evans nearing retirement, the Sea Eagles see Fogarty as a stopgap who could guide young prospects like Joey Walsh and Onitoni Large. If they fail to secure him, Tom Trbojevic remains a potential option to shift to five-eighth.
Fogarty has played a key role in Canberra’s strong start to the season, with seven try assists and steady leadership that has freed Strange to flourish at five-eighth. The Raiders currently sit third on the ladder and face the Dolphins at GIO Stadium this Sunday.
