Sydney Roosters tell star prop he is free to leave club

The Sydney Roosters have approached prop Terrell May to discuss parting ways immediately, granting the Samoan international permission to join a rival club in 2025.

May, who only this year signed a new contract worth around $950,000 over two years, has now been offered the chance to seek a deal elsewhere.

Sources with knowledge of the situation talking on the condition of anonymity said the Roosters feel May doesn’t fit the direction in which the club is heading.

The Roosters are also trying to free up salary cap space to make moves in the player market for 2026 and beyond.

May has been one of the most improved players in the competition over the past two years and is likely to attract plenty of interest.

The 25-year-old is currently representing Samoa in the two-Test series against England in the United Kingdom. He isn’t expected back to Roosters training until closer to the new year.

It’s not certain he will return at all, having been informed by Roosters powerbrokers he is free to explore his options. He has told Samoan teammates on tour he could be leaving the club.

Several NRL clubs are on the lookout for front-rowers, including Wests Tigers, St George Illawarra and Canterbury.

The Bulldogs previously showed interest in signing May, along with brothers Tyrone and Taylan, but pulled their offer after a dispute with his management.

Canterbury are expected to enter the chase for Knights forward Leo Thompson, who is set to attract big-money offers from Canberra and the Dolphins when he becomes a free agent on November 1.

The Knights on Thursday announced the signing of Leo Thompson’s twin brother Tyrone on a development contract for next season.

The news of May’s potential release comes the day after Ben Hunt parted ways with the Dragons and the Eels agreed to release skipper Clint Gutherson immediately.

Sports news, results and expert commentary.Sign up for our Sport newsletter.