Melbourne Storm grant immediate release to NRL grand final player to sign with new club

The Melbourne Storm have announced the immediate departure of 27-year-old forward Lazarus Vaalepu to sign with Leigh Leopards in the English Super League. Vaalepu played 11 NRL games for the Storm after debuting in 2024, and played in the grand final that year against Penrith.

He only featured at first-grade level four times in 2025, and none this season. The Storm confirmed his immediate release on Tuesday night to take up an opportunity in the UK under Leopards coach Adrian Lam.

“The club thanks Laz for his contribution to Melbourne Storm and wishes him all the best ahead of his move to the UK,” the Storm said in a statement.

Leigh’s director of football Andrew Henderson hailed the signing of Vaalepu. “We're really excited to bring Lazarus to Leigh,” Henderson said. “He's a player with genuine presence, power, and punch, giving us a real point of difference within our middle unit.

“He's humble, driven to succeed, and genuinely believes he can grow his game under Adrian Lam in Super League. We're looking forward to helping him take the next step in his career.

“He's of good character and has been developed through a strong Melbourne system for a number of years, which will be a real benefit to us. I believe he'll thrive in our environment and become a player our supporters really connect with. He wants to be part of something ambitious – and that's exactly what we're creating here at Leigh.”

Storm fans react to Lazarus Vaalepu release

Vaalepu had expressed hope of remaining in Melbourne, but his opportunities dried up this year. "I love living in Melbourne and playing at Melbourne," the front-rower told Zero Tackle earlier this year. "Whatever it takes I'll try and get an extension there, so hopefully stay there. I wouldn't mind being a one-club man.

"I just (want to) keep improving. That's been the main thing. Improving every day, just going up and up and obviously the rewards will come. Just trying to keep doing the same thing. Nothing changes, just more intensity."

Storm fans were left divided on the club’s decision to release him. While some supported the decision, others felt he deserved more opportunities. It comes after the club snared second-rower Oryn Keeley from the Dolphins with immediate effect.

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