The Sydney Roosters have today confirmed that Tinirau Arona and Michael Oldfield have been granted immediate releases from their contracts.
Arona, 24, was contracted to the club until the end of 2014 but has been granted the release to sign with Cronulla.
Sydney Roosters Chief Operating Officer Football, Brian Canavan, said: “Tinirau has a lot to offer the NRL and the club’s decision to grant him a release has been based on what we consider in the best interests of his long-term playing future.
“‘T’ has been a wonderful role model for the Roosters as well as our affiliation club, the Newtown Jets. His dedication and commitment to all aspects of training and club life have been exemplary.
“On behalf of everyone associated with the Sydney Roosters, we wish ‘T’ and his young family all the very best and thank him for his contribution to our club.”
Arona, who represented the Cook Islands at the 2013 Rugby League World Cup, played three games in the NRL in 2013 and has played 36 overall since making his NRL debut with the Roosters in 2011 (Round 4).
The Sydney Roosters have also granted an immediate release to 23-year-old utility back Michael Oldfield, who has signed a two-year deal with French rugby league side, Catalans Dragons.
“Michael is a young player with a lot of potential, and a wonderful man off the field, and we wish him all the very best ahead of his move overseas to join Catalans,” said Canavan.