The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs have secured the early arrival of promising forward Finau Latu, who will join the club ahead of the June 30 NRL transfer deadline.
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Latu had already inked a three-year deal to begin with the Bulldogs in 2026, but after swift negotiations, Canterbury successfully struck a deal with St George Illawarra for his immediate release.
Currently sidelined due to a back injury, Latu will now undergo rehabilitation under the Bulldogs’ medical team — a move both clubs believe will benefit his recovery and development.
🗣️ “The Dragons can confirm that Finau Latu has been granted an immediate release from the remainder of his 2025 contract,” the club stated.
“The Dragons wish Finau all the best with the next chapter of his career.”
Latu, a Dragons junior, has risen through the ranks — playing Harold Matthews Cup in 2022, winning an SG Ball premiership in 2023, and earning selections in both Jersey Flegg and NSW Cup. His departure, however, stirred controversy earlier this year.
Dragons coach Shane Flanagan expressed frustration with how the situation was handled.
“I wanted to keep him and I’m not happy about the negotiation side of it. The way that it was handled by his management was really poor,” Flanagan said in April.
The Bulldogs, meanwhile, are thrilled with their latest recruit, especially after securing Lachlan Galvin — Latu’s Australian Schoolboys teammate — just weeks ago.
🗣️ “It was no surprise to see a number of clubs were after Finau’s services, but we’re very pleased that he sees his future at Belmore,” said Bulldogs GM Phil Gould.
“He will have some exceptional mentors including Max King, Viliame Kikau, and Kurt Mann. We believe he can develop into a great player for the Bulldogs.”
🗳️ POLL: Did the Bulldogs make the right call bringing Finau Latu in early?
Vote below!
🔘 Yes – Smart move to secure young talent and start his development early
🔘 No – He’s injured, they could have waited until next season
🔘 Not sure – Time will tell if he’s worth the early release