Sea Eagles, Knights confirm player swap as another blocked from leaving….
The Manly Sea Eagles and Newcastle Knights have completed a last‑minute mid-season player swap just hours before the June 30 transfer deadline:
Jake Arthur (22), a halfback at Manly since mid‑2023, has been released immediately to join the Knights, where he’ll reunite with his brother Matt Arthur.
Paul Bryan (22), a young forward who debuted in Round 12 but has been sidelined by injury, moves from Newcastle to Manly on the same day—signing through the end of 2026.
Manly had also targeted 29‑year‑old enforcer Jack Hetherington, but the Knights have blocked his departure. Despite being off-contract at year’s end and limited in opportunity, Hetherington will see out the remainder of the season in Newcastle.
Jake Arthur Manly Knights Immediate release; joins brother
Paul Bryan Knights Manly Injured but contracted through ’26
Jack Hetherington Knights (Manly) Wanted by Manly, stay blocked
This swap helps both clubs plug immediate needs before the deadline:
Knights gain a promising halfback in Arthur.
Sea Eagles bolster their forward depth with Bryan.
Hetherington’s stay suggests Newcastle are focusing on maintaining depth amid injury and future planning.
