Charlie Staines will depart the Wests Tigers at the end of the season, with the winger signing a deal to join Catalans Dragons in the English Super League from 2026.
The 24-year-old has agreed to a two-year contract with the French club, giving him long-term security and the opportunity to establish himself as a first-choice winger after spending much of the season in NSW Cup.
It marks the end of a short but eventful stint at the Tigers, where he originally arrived from Penrith after helping the Panthers to their 2022 premiership.
Although he showed glimpses of his speed and finishing ability, Staines struggled to lock down a regular first-grade spot, often competing for a place in the backline with younger talent.
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He also endured interruptions through injury, which further limited his impact and made it difficult to build consistency in the Tigers’ starting side.
The Tigers had extended Staines until the end of 2025, but it became clear re-signing him for a further stay was unlikely and opportunities in the NRL right now appear to be limited for him.
His move to Catalans continues a strong trend of NRL players heading to Perpignan, with the French outfit signing Luke Keary, Tevita Pangai Jr. and Nic Cotric, among other NRL players over the past couple of seasons.
Staines’ explosive pace and ability to finish opportunities out wide make him a valuable signing for the Dragons, who believe he can be a strike weapon in their push for finals football and consistency.
For Staines, the move offers a chance to play regular first-grade football away from the pressure of Sydney, while possibly developing enough to resurrect his NRL career down the track.
His exit leaves the Tigers with further space to reshape their backline, as the club looks to bring through young talent as part of their continued rebuild.
Now, with a two-year deal in France secured, Staines will aim to rediscover the form that made him a sensation when he first burst onto the NRL scene, scoring four tries on debut for Penrith.