Panthers veteran James Tamou will switch to the Wests Tigers in 2021 with the former Test prop inking a two-year deal.
The front-rower has been in superb form for Penrith in their charge to the minor premiership and will add much-needed experience to Michael Maguire's pack at the Wests Tigers.
Earlier this week when asked about his impending switch, Tamou said he was so determined to lead the side through the playoffs without distraction he told Maguire just that when the Wests Tigers coach introduced himself following their round 16 clash last month.
"I bumped into him here after the game and it was sort of like 'it's nice to meet you'," Tamou said.
Maguire: Tamou is a leader
"He just wanted to introduce himself and say hello. I said that you've got a good young crop of boys here.
"And we started talking about it and I said I would rather leave it to my manager and let my wife and I discuss it as we get on. He was respectful of that, but we were good for the minute or two we were talking."
Storm v Wests Tigers - Round 19
The Tigers officially announced the deal for the 2015 Cowboys premiership-winner and 263-game veteran on Friday.
"James brings a wealth of experience to our forward pack and is a player who has experienced success at every level of the game," Maguire said.
"He has shown throughout his career to be a player who constantly improves not only himself but those around him, and I have no doubt he will play a key role in the development of our forward pack."
