Newcastle Knights coach Nathan Brown believes Mitchell Pearce's multimillion-dollar move to the club will prove to be more than just a marquee signature.
Brown is convinced the former Sydney Roosters star will bring many qualities other than leadership to Newcastle.
"Mitchell is a player in the prime of his career," Brown said.
"He's going to be a big part of our redevelopment at the club in many aspects. It's not every day the Newcastle Knights get to make a signing as good as Mitchell Pearce.
"He has been a regular for NSW and pretty much has played finals football for much of his career."
Brown was looking forward to seeing Pearce exert his influence over what is shaping up as the youngest spine in the NRL.
Ex-North Queensland Cowboys prodigy Kalyn Ponga is likely to be Newcastle's fullback, Brock Lamb or Connor Watson will be Pearce's halves partner and Kiwi international Danny Levi is the incumbent at hooker.
"Mitch is such a great trainer and he can offer so much guidance in this area," Brown said.
"It will certainly give the backs a player who they can learn a lot from in their own long-term development."
There were a few anxious moments in the lead-up to Pearce committing to Newcastle, and the coach could not hide his excitement now the deal has been sealed.
"We thought our initial meeting went well," Brown said.
"We also thought he was definitely thinking about coming up. Late yesterday afternoon it became a reality."
The NSW Origin halfback will make the move to Newcastle on Monday.
"The greatest thing about coming up here will be the support from everyone," Brown said. "Pearce will get to live a nice lifestyle as well."
