ST GEORGE Illawarra has taken to social media to confirm his decision to depart the Dragons for the Knights despite the NRL not registering the contract.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Newcastle confirmed on Friday that it made their offer to Frizell in January and would continue to act in "good faith" amid the governing body's freeze on all contracts and transfers as it works through the financial implications of the coronavirus crisis.
It also puts the financial terms of the deal in doubt but Frizell confirmed the move via Instagram on Friday.
"In regards to news of my recent signing with the Newcastle Knights, I have signed and agreed to terms," he wrote.
"Due to the current circumstances it has not been registered with the NRL. As an individual, family, community and as a game, there are more pressing priorities at the moment.
"So with respect to the media and fans I would like to make no further comments on my contract until a appropriate time."
The 28-year-old Test and Origin star was at the centre of a bidding war between the Dragons and Knights, the latter offering a reported $2.1 million over three years.
Dragons recruitment chief Ian Millward said the club had made a generous offer to the Corrimal Cougars junior but, with 13 players currently off-contract, it will look elsewhere to bolster its ranks.
"Tyson Frizell received one of the most substantial offers in St George Illawarra history to remain at the club beyond the 2020 season," Millward said.
"It was a deal that reflected his contribution over the past eight years, and of course, the seasons that would have followed. We made responsible decisions when determining Tyson's value and contract extension.
"Tyson's decision to depart the Dragons at season's end will now allow the club to pursue other quality players in the marketplace."
It's a huge blow for the Dragons and coach Paul McGregor given Frizell's public declaration that pursuing finals footy and a premiership would be the deciding factor in determining his future.
It makes his decision to depart seemingly a vote of no confidence in his current club after seven seasons in the red v.
The contract with the Knights cannot be lodged with the NRL, with terms on the deal.
"In late January, the nib Newcastle Knights made Tyson Frizell a three-year offer starting in season 2021 which he has accepted," the club said in a statement.
"Due to the current uncertain circumstances for rugby league, the NRL are not registering any new or updated contracts. The club has and always will act in good faith in relation to contracts.
"Our offer has never changed and was issued prior to these trying and uncertain times. The club will make no further comment."