Get ready for a major shake-up in the NRL world! The St George Illawarra Dragons are on the brink of signing a game-changing player, and it’s not just any player—it’s Setu Tu, the lightning-fast speedster from the New Zealand Warriors. But here’s where it gets controversial: is this the move that will propel the Dragons to the top, or are they risking too much on a player who’s yet to prove himself at the NRL level? Let’s dive in.
The Dragons have been making waves in their junior recruitment efforts, already securing talents like Nick Quinn from the South Sydney Rabbitohs and David Dale from the Penrith Panthers. Now, they’re zeroing in on Tu, whose explosive finishing and versatility—he can play on either wing, at centre, or even fullback—have made him a hot commodity. And this is the part most people miss: Tu’s breakout 2025 season in the NSW Cup wasn’t just impressive; it was dominant. He helped the Warriors claim the State Championship title, scoring doubles in both the NSW Cup Grand Final and the State Championship decider. At 26, he’s no rookie, but his NRL potential is still untapped.
Sources close to the situation confirm that Tu is on the verge of signing a two-year deal with the Dragons, with negotiations in their final stages. This move aligns perfectly with coach Shane Flanagan’s vision for 2026, focusing on bolstering outside-back depth and injecting pace into the squad. Tu’s consistency and game-breaking ability have caught the eye of Dragons officials, who see him as a strong contender to challenge for a starting wing spot.
But here’s the question: Can Tu replicate his NSW Cup success at the NRL level? While his form in 2025 was undeniable, the step up to the top tier is no small feat. Bold prediction: If Tu delivers on his promise, he could be the missing piece in the Dragons’ backline puzzle. But if he falters, this signing might be remembered as a risky gamble.
What do you think? Is Setu Tu the player the Dragons need to climb the NRL ladder, or is this move too much of a leap of faith? Let us know in the comments—we’re eager to hear your take!
