EXCLUSIVE: Billy Slater reveals crucial detail in Parramatta's five-year deal for Mitchell Moses

Billy Slater has revealed the significance of Mitchell Moses inking a long-term deal to stay with Parramatta, claiming rival players will now be encouraged to join the club.

One of the best halfbacks in the NRL committed for another five years with the Eels last week in a major boost on the eve of the 2025 season.

Moses will now most likely finish his career in blue and gold, with head coach Jason Ryles already making waves from a recruitment and retention perspective.

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Speaking on Nine's The Billy Slater Podcast this week, the Maroons coach backed the early moves from Ryles, his former teammate, while also pointing out how Moses sticking around could benefit any future targets on the open market.

"I think it's good for the club," Slater said.

"Jason Ryles is a pretty smart man, he knows what's going on. I played alongside Jason and I've been a player under his coaching. What he's doing at Parramatta will be a long-term thing and his thought process will be long-term.

"For a guy like Mitchell Moses to commit to the club … that's great for players who want to sign and play alongside Mitchell Moses. He is one of the top-line halfbacks in our game and you can really build around those sort of players.

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"You'll get players who want to go there for what they're worth and not overs, just to go and play with quality players like Mitchell. 

"I think it's a great move by Jason Ryles and the Eels, because he is gonna be the guy who takes this team forward. If they are gonna win a premiership within the next five years, Mitchell Moses is gonna have a whole heap to do with that."

The news of Moses' fresh contract comes as Parramatta attempts to hold onto their other playmaker Dylan Brown, who is receiving plenty of interest elsewhere.

The 24-year-old has been linked with the Knights and Dolphins in recent weeks and due to a player option in his deal at the Eels, could be on his way out the door in 2026.

At this stage, Brown has not officially confirmed he will leave the club with whom he has spent his entire career, with Eels officials still holding out hope of keeping him.

The Eels begin their campaign against premiership favourites Melbourne on Sunday.