A Parramatta Eels outside back has reportedly requested an early release from his contract, despite being signed with the club through to the end of the 2027 NRL season.
The 27-year-old has been out of favour in recent weeks, making just two first-grade appearances since Round 10.
Bailey Simonsson, one of the first players re-signed by Jason Ryles late last year after taking over as head coach, has been a dependable and consistent figure in Parramatta’s backline over the past four years.
Despite scoring four tries in the NSW Cup and being expected to return to the top side last week, Simonsson was again overlooked, with Jordan Samrani preferred instead.
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According to NRL Tonight, the 26-year-old has now requested a release from the club.
At this point, the reason for his decision remains unclear.
Simonsson has not been linked to any specific club, but he is known to have a strong friendship with Gold Coast Titans player and former Raiders teammate Harley Smith-Shields.
Prior to re-signing with the Eels, he also considered offers from both the Dragons and Cowboys.
“That for me is very puzzling cause Bailey has been one of key signings we've had for the last couple of years,” former Eels prop Tim Mannah said on NRL Tonight after the story broke.
“He's always done a job for us, so I don't know what the story is there, but I'm a huge fan of Bailey's as well, and I think he's got the right to be in the team.”