The Perth Bears’ long-awaited entry into the NRL continues to generate momentum, and while the club officially locked in two major signings for their 2027 debut season, head coach Mal Meninga has sparked even greater intrigue by openly entertaining the possibility of adding one more name to their growing wishlist — the highly talented Zac Lomax.
Lomax spent the early part of this week in Western Australia, though not for reasons directly related to rugby league. Instead, he was sighted touring the Western Force’s facilities, prompting speculation that the rugby union franchise might be considering a bold play for the versatile back. A spokesperson from the Force confirmed his presence and praised his athleticism, stating "he is a standout athlete with significant potential". Despite this, the NRL door remains wide open for Lomax, and one of the league’s most respected figures has made it clear that he would welcome further conversations.
The Bears’ expansion announcement has already created a stir across the league, but Meninga’s comments added another layer to the developing story. Speaking on Wide World of Sports with Adam Hawse, Meninga left little doubt about his admiration for Lomax and his willingness to explore the possibility of reuniting with a player he once coached at representative level. Referring to ARLC chairman Peter V’Landys’ remarks, he acknowledged: "I see our chairman Peter V'Landys made a comment that he is welcome back in our game."
From there, the veteran coach made his position even clearer: "If he did become available, then why wouldn't we enter into those sort of conversations. You'd be silly not to. He is a great player, a great person. I've had a bit to do with him in the national side. He would be a great asset to any club."
Lomax’s recent departure from the Parramatta Eels and the collapse of R360 has placed his future under a microscope. With his ability to cover both centre and wing, he represents the type of marquee signing that any expansion franchise would covet. Meninga didn’t deny this reality either, acknowledging that "like most of those marquee guys, every club would be trying to get his services because he is such a good player."
While the Lomax conversation raised eyebrows, the Bears still had major confirmed business to celebrate today. The club officially revealed its first two foundational signings for 2027: playmaker Toby Sexton and English Test centre Harry Newman.
Sexton, who transitioned to the Super League after being squeezed out of the Bulldogs due to the controversial recruitment of Lachlan Galvin, will return to Australia after completing his 2026 season with Catalans. Newman, meanwhile, brings international pedigree to Perth, having earned seven Test caps for England and claiming the prestigious Super League Young Player of the Year award in 2020.
Meninga expressed his excitement in a club-released statement, calling it a milestone moment:
"I am absolutely thrilled to welcome Toby and Harry to the Perth Bears in what is a truly historic day for our club."
He didn’t stop there, highlighting what each new recruit brings to the inaugural roster.
On Sexton, he said: "Toby is proven leader that works hard to make his teammates better. He is a quality person who I know will make the most of the opportunity to be a trailblazer for the Perth Bears."
Regarding Newman, Meninga added: "Harry is a Test player who has been a part of the successful Leeds Rhinos system for several years. He has the skillset and experience to make an immediate impact in the NRL and I'm really excited to see what he can do when gets here in 2027."
The acquisition of Sexton and Newman marks a strategic start for the Bears, who are working carefully to build a competitive squad from the ground up. Their choices so far signal a balanced approach: bringing in a young playmaker capable of steering the attack and pairing him with a fast, physical outside back with top-tier pedigree. The Bears’ leadership believes these signings reflect the identity they’re trying to establish — disciplined, versatile, and ready to compete from day one.
But despite the significance of their first recruitment announcements, the possibility of adding a name like Lomax could elevate their inaugural roster to another level. His presence in Western Australia this week has inevitably accelerated speculation. Even if his visit was solely linked to the Western Force, the overlap with Meninga’s comments has created a narrative too compelling for fans to ignore.
If Lomax chooses rugby union, the Western Force would likely gain a powerful and dynamic backline weapon. But if the NRL succeeds in enticing him to return — and if the Bears position themselves effectively — Perth could secure a marquee player capable of drawing crowds and strengthening their brand instantly.
For now, the Bears are focused on finalizing their initial wave of signings. Meninga assured supporters that the next announcements are not far away, and the club intends to build a diverse, experienced, and exciting squad capable of competing against the league’s strongest teams from their inaugural season.
The 2027 season may still be a few years away, but Perth has already positioned itself as the league’s most intriguing storyline — between high-profile signings, a welcoming rugby league community, and the potential involvement of a star like Lomax, the new franchise is shaping up to be a force before ever stepping onto the field.
