BREAKING: Roosters release premiership winner Spencer Leniu... to sign with NRL rival

It’s official. Four-time premiership winning prop Spencer Leniu will link up with the Eels effective immediately, reuniting with former teammate Jarome Luai.

Just hours after the Roosters announced Leniu’s immediate departure, the Eels released a statement confirming the firebrand had put pen-to-paper on a whopping four-year deal.

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“We’re thrilled to have Spencer join the Parramatta Eels and become part of what we’re building at this Club. He’s one of the elite middle forwards in the game and has consistently performed on the biggest stages throughout his career,” Eels general manager of football Mark O’Neill said via the club-issued statement.

Leniu was contracted at the Roosters until the end of next season, but has been granted an immediate release.

CODE Sports reporter Brent Read revealed on NRL 360 earlier in the year that Leniu was headed for the exit door, with concerns over whether the 26-year-old was providing value for money.

“He was brought in to become a starting front-rower and he hasn’t become a starting front-rower,” Read said at the time.

“He’s paid to be a starting front-rower (but) he’s being playing 20-30 minutes a game basically. You can’t pay guys that amount of money.”

Leniu did make the most of his limited minutes in the grand final, running for 92 metres in 24 minutes but he will now move into a more prominent role at an Eels side in desperate need of some added punch up front.

The fiery front rower took a big risk leaving the Panthers, declaring the Roosters the “pinnacle of rugby league” in 2023.

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Roosters coach Trent Robinson credited Leniu for his strong presence, on and off the field, in his three years at the club.

“Spencer has brought a lot to our group over the last three years, both through the way he plays and the energy and personality he brings every day,” said Robinson.

“He came to the Roosters wanting to challenge himself and continue to grow, and we’ve seen him develop not only as a player, but as a leader within our group.

“Spenny has a strong moral compass. He knows what he stands for, he cares deeply about his teammates and the people around him, and he’s never afraid to speak up for what he believes in. Those qualities have made him an important and respected leader within our group.

“He brings an intensity and competitiveness to everything he does, and he challenges the people around him to be better.

“He’s built some really strong relationships across our club and has been an important part of our group. To see him finish his time here as a premiership winner is something he should be really proud of, and something we’ll always share together.”

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Leniu, meanwhile, said it was “really special” to finish his time at the club with a premiership ring.

“I’ve loved my time at the Roosters and I’ll always be grateful for the opportunity to have been part of this club,” said Leniu.

“I came here wanting to challenge myself and grow as a player and as a person, and I feel like I’ve done that. I’ve learnt a lot from Robbo and the coaches, and I’ve been lucky to play alongside a great group of boys who have become my brothers.

“To finish my time here as a premiership winner is really special. Winning a premiership with this group and sharing that with the boys, our families and everyone at the club is something I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life.

“There are a lot of people at the club who have looked after me and my family from the day I arrived, and that’s something I’ll always appreciate.

“I’m proud to have worn the Roosters jersey and I’ll always have a lot of love and respect for the club, the boys and everyone who has supported me during my time here.”