Joe Greenwood relishing chance to play in NRL with Gold Coast Titans

St Helens forward Joe Greenwood says he could not turn down the chance of an immediate move to Australia to play in the NRL.

The 23-year-old had been expected to join the Gold Coast Titans at the end of the 2017 season but that move was fast-tracked on Sunday.

Greenwood will now make the move to Queensland immediately with Zeb Taia joining Saints in a swap deal, both players signing three-year deals.

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He said: "I have been playing at St Helens from the academy level through to the first team for nine years, making it a big decision for me and my family. However, it was an opportunity I couldn't turn down.

"I'm looking forward to starting my new chapter with Gold Coast Titans. It's going to be an exciting challenge but can't wait to get stuck in with the boys."

Titans chief operating officer Tony Mestrov added: "We were excited about Joe joining us for seasons 2018 and 2019 but to be able to do a deal and have him at the club this season is a good result.

"He adds some size to our forward pack and will provide some good impact on the edges. Hopefully we can get him here relatively quickly and he will be pushing for an NRL start in the near future.

"In relation to Zeb, he is a quality individual and someone who provided great leadership in and around the playing group.

"It's disappointing to lose him but he has the opportunity to prolong his career in the English Super League and we wish him well for the future."