Who is Keaon Koloamatangi? South Sydney star back-rower reportedly heading to Dragons in 2027 in a blockbuster $5 million, five-year deal

Keaon Koloamatangi is a rising star in the NRL, currently playing as a back-rower for the South Sydney Rabbitohs. Known for his physicality, work ethic, and ability to break through defensive lines, Koloamatangi has become a key contributor to South Sydney’s forward pack. Emerging as a talented and versatile player, he has impressed fans and analysts alike with his defensive prowess and attacking skills. According to Sydney Morning Herald, Koloamatangi is set to join the St. George Illawarra Dragons in 2027 in a blockbuster deal, signaling a major move in the NRL and a significant addition to the Dragons’ squad.

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, the Dragons are poised to sign South Sydney back-rower Koloamatangi on a lucrative five-year deal worth about $5 million, which would be the biggest signing of coach Shane Flanagan’s tenure. The report also states that Koloamatangi has decided his future after weighing strong interest from both the Dragons and the Parramatta Eels, with both clubs chasing the Kangaroos representative.

South Sydney have also offered Koloamatangi a four-year contract extension worth around $1 million per season, but the back-rower has reportedly informed St George Illawarra officials that he intends to join the Dragons in 2027, reported Sydney Morning Herald.


The Rabbitohs now have a chance to change his mind, with negotiations entering the mandatory 10-day 'cooling-off period', during which the current club has the final right to negotiate. Both Parramatta and St George Illawarra had put forward seven-figure offers, reflecting Koloamatangi’s value as a versatile edge and middle forward and his strong form for South Sydney during the 2025 season.

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, the Dragons have made their interest in Koloamatangi clear, going as far as flying him by helicopter from Sydney to Wollongong as part of their effort to convince him to join the club.