St George Illawarra have secured the signing of Parramatta skipper Clint Gutherson to play fullback for them next year.
Gutherson wasofficially released from Parramatta on Thursday after weeks of speculation about his future.
The Eels had told their captain that he would be shifted to a utility role in 2025 if he stuck around and allowed him to explore options elsewhere as he entered the final season of his contract.
Dragons coach Shane Flanagan pounced after the club released halfback Ben Hunt last week although Gutherson is unlikely to replace his fellow Origin representative as skipper.
“Clint will be a fantastic addition to our squad over the next three seasons,” said Flanagan in a statement.
“He is not just an elite fullback; he also brings leadership, competitiveness, toughness and versatility. In addition to his obvious on-field qualities he will also be a huge asset to our emerging players over the coming years.”
Gutherson said he was looking forward to getting started.
“I feel really excited and honoured to be able to come here and put this jersey on and have that badge on my chest,” Gutherson said.
“The rich history that this club has is second to none… The direction the club went in this year and where Flano and the staff are taking the club is something I want to be a part of.”
“I think I can offer a lot to where we’re trying to go over the next few years. I’m looking forward to the challenge and what lies ahead.”
New Eels coach Jason Ryles they “would have liked Clint to be part of our squad in 2025, but we respect his desire to explore new opportunities and believe it’s important to support him in what he feels is best for his career”.
FAREWELL, KING. 👑
Today we say goodbye to Clint Gutherson, who departs the Eels after nine years of incredible service to the club. Thank you for everything Gutho… a Parra legend. 💙💛
Club Statement ✍️ https://t.co/Hqc85J0GjK
#PARRAdise pic.twitter.com/GWFjavWufJ— Parramatta Eels (@TheParraEels) November 7, 2024
Gutherson had been offered a $2.5 million deal until the end of 2027 by the Dragons and he will slot into the No.1 jersey with Tyrell Sloan shifted to the wing slot vacated by Zac Lomax after he switched to Parramatta.
Unless they decide to try Gutherson in the halves with Kyle Flanagan, the Dragons still need to sign an established playmaker for next season following Hunt’s acrimonious exit.
They have added Souths hooker Damien Cook, who is tipped to take over the captaincy, and Cowboys star Valentine Holmes while Jack Bird has joined Wests Tigers and fellow utility Max Feagai is now a Dolphin.
