Walker, 30, was in the final year of a three-season deal at New Zealand before being granted an immediate release on Wednesday. The former South Sydney premiership winner has enjoyed a renaissance under Warriors coach Andrew Webster as a bench utility. But on Thursday he agreed to return to Sydney to be part of Jason Ryles’ rebuild at the Eels. “We were keen for Dylan to stay until the end of the season, but we appreciate why he needs to return to Sydney,” Warriors chief executive Cameron George said. “We’ve really enjoyed having him at our club and he has given us tremendous service. He goes with our support and best wishes.” The Eels are on the lookout for a halves partner for Mitchell Moses, with Brown to move to Newcastle on a rich 10-year, $13m deal in 2026. Walker has agreed to join the Eels for the rest of 2025 and next year. And he shapes as a potential short-term No.6 for the Eels in 2026.