The Cronulla Sharks have officially announced Matt Moylan’s four-year deal with the club, ending months of speculation over the former Penrith Panthers skipper’s future.
Moylan reported for his first day of duty at Sharks headquarters on Thursday after Penrith announced his release in a statement earlier in the morning.
The swap deal involving James Maloney is likely to be finalised next week, with the Panthers awaiting the NRL’s approval of his three-year contract and the third-party deal associated with it.
Maloney, who on Saturday will play his first game of this year’s World Cup for Australia, spent some time at Panthers academy on Thursday during the Kangaroos players’ day off.
Cronulla coach Shane Flanagan said Moylan, who has represented NSW and the Kangaroos, would bring “class, versatility and X-factor” to his team.
“To have Matt on board is going to add a few things to our team, especially offensively,” Flanagan said.
“He can play in the halves, he can play fullback. He’s got great versatility, he’ll fit into our team and give us some depth in those positions and he’s not too fussed where he plays.
“I think it’s a great signing for the club and I’m looking forward to working with him.”
Moylan arrived at Southern Cross Group Stadium on Thursday morning for his induction and fitness testing.
“It’s a new chapter in my career and I’m looking forward to getting out here and playing some good footy,” Moylan said.
“I’m excited about the new opportunity and wherever I end up playing I’ll be happy.
“Hopefully I can have a good off-season and hit the ground running next year.”
He will link with former teammates including Andrew Fifita, Wade Graham and James Segeyaro at Cronulla.
“That will make (the move) a little easier,” he said. “It’s all good from what they’ve said to me.”
Moylan, 26, scored 26 tries in his 89 games for the Panthers after making his NRL debut in 2013.
"I'm sure I speak for everyone here at Panthers in wishing Matt all the best for this next phase of his life," Panthers executive general manager Phil Gould said.
"We will follow his football career with great interest."
Matt Moylan Fact File
DOB – 16-6-1991
Junior Club – St Pats Blacktown
89 NRL games
29 tries
28 goals
1 Test for Australia
3 games for NSW
NRL debut – Panthers v Eels, Round 7, 2013
This video first featured at sharks.com.au
