THE Newcastle Knights have confirmed signing St George Illawarra, NSW and Kangaroos back-rower Tyson Frizell to a three-season deal, starting next year.
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In a statement on the club website, Knights officials said on Friday: "In late January, the nib Newcastle Knights made Tyson Frizell a three-year offer starting in season 2021 which he has accepted.
"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."
The news comes in the same week that the Knights stood down a host of employees on unpaid leave after the NRL season was suspended because of the coronavirus.
Frizell, who will be 29 by the time next season kicks off, will reportedly earn $2.1 million during his three years at the Knights, although all NRL clubs will almost certainly be dealing with a reduced salary cap once the code is cleared to resume normal service.
The explosive forward has played in 14 Tests for Australia and 11 Origins for NSW, most of them alongside future Knights teammate David Klemmer.
The Dragons released a statement on their website, quoting director of rugby league pathways and list management Ian Millward.
"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."
