Trent Merrin is heading to the foot of the mountains after informing his Dragons teammates of his decision to join Penrith on a three-year $2 million deal on Monday morning.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Merrin's manager Wayne Beavis confirmed last week that his client would not be extending his current contract with the Dragons while the Blues Origin rep was in England for the World Club Series.
Penrith were early favourites to secure Merrin's signature before Broncos coach Wayne Bennett made a late play to lure him to Brisbane. The Warriors were also willing to throw big money at Merrin to lure him across the Tasman.
Merrin will play out the 2015 season with the Dragons and teammate Gareth Widdop said the playing group was relieved that their star forward's future was resolved prior to their round match with Melbourne on Monday night.
‘‘Mez has been here for a long long time now so it’s disappointing but at least it’s over with now," Widdop said.
"It’s obviously been tossed around in the papers for a while but the season’s here now and the last thing you want is it dragging on into the season.
‘‘It’s disappointing to see him go but we certainly support his decision and wish him all the best. He’s just focused on this year now and putting in good performances week-in week-out.
‘‘Our full focus now is this week and Monday night against Melbourne."
Merrin's departure follows that of representative winger Brett Morris to the Bulldogs in November.