The Warriors have released David Fusitu'a as the international winger prepares to join Super League giants Leeds.
A tryscoring machine who's represented Mate Ma'a Tonga nine times, Fusitu'a was signed with the Warriors until the end of 2023.
However, having fallen down the backline pecking order, playing five games in 2021, the former Dally M Tryscorer of the Year winner reportedly asked the club for permission to explore other options.
It's wound up with Fusitu'a sealing a move to Leeds Rhinos for season 2022, joining the 2017 Super League premiers on a two-year deal.
The 27-year-old leaves the Warriors with a total of 108 games for the club and 61 tries, making him the club's fifth-highest tryscorer of all-time.
“David has an opportunity to secure his future in the United Kingdom and wants the chance to make a fresh start,” said Warriors recruitment manager Peter O’Sullivan.
“He has had a difficult time in 2020 and 2021 but, at his best, he is one of the leading outside backs in the game. Going to the Super League gives him the chance to rediscover his form.
“As our longest-serving Vodafone Warriors player he has made a huge contribution to the club. We thank him for his service and wish David and his family all the best for the future.”
A prolific finisher, Fusitu'a was awarded the Ken Irvine Medal at the 2018 Dally M Awards after scoring 23 tries in as many games that season.
In the 2017 Rugby League World Cup, Fusitu'a also scored the vital hat-trick in Tonga's iconic group stage win over New Zealand, who he also represented twice at Test level.
Rhinos coach Richard Agar described Fusitu'a as a world-class talent who he believes will quickly become a fan favourite in Leeds.
“We are really excited to have signed David and I think he will be a great addition to our team," Agar said.
"Undoubtedly, he is a world class talent, you only need to look at his highlights reel and see the spectacular tries he can score to know he will soon become a crowd favourite at the Rhinos. In the modern era, it is rare that a player of his ability becomes available for a Super League club and it is a great boost for us to have beaten off competition from a number of clubs to have secured his signature.
“He is still only 27 and, whilst we understand the reasons why he has not played as much football as he would have liked last season, having spoken to him, he is keen to return to his best in a Rhinos shirt. He is a player who loves to play with a smile on his face and I know he and his young family are looking forward to being part of the Rhinos family."
Fusitu'a said he's looking forward to a fresh start over in the UK.
“It is going to be something new and fresh. Me and my family are excited to come over to England," he said.
"Leeds have been a proud and successful club for a long time and I am looking forward to getting over, meeting the boys and starting the hard work with the team.
"I spoke to Richard Agar and you can see how genuine he is and the care he has for the club and his players. Leeds play an exciting brand of rugby league and I am excited to come over and be apart of that.
"For me to come over to the Rhinos, have a smile on my face, train hard and hopefully win plenty of games to give the fans something to cheer about will be special.”