The Manly Warringah Sea Eagles have signed forward Luke Burgess for the 2015 and 2016 seasons, after the South Sydney Rabbitohs agreed to grant him an early release from the final year of his contract on Wednesday.

Burgess, 27, has played 135 NRL and Super League matches since making his debut for the London Harlequins back in 2007. Burgess was an integral part of the South Sydney Rabbitohs squad who broke their 43-year premiership drought in 2014, playing 18 matches for the side.

The front-rower has also tasted success with the Leeds Rhinos in the English Super League, winning the title in 2009.

After a strong preseason at Redfern, the Englishman is looking forward to heading to the north to get acquainted with his new teammates.

“I’ve had a wonderful time at the South Sydney Rabbitohs and I’d like to thank them for the wonderful memories over the years,” Burgess said.

“I really appreciate them granting me this release. I’m really looking forward to the next few seasons at the Sea Eagles and can’t wait to get stuck in with the boys tomorrow,” Burgess added.

For more information visit www.seaeagles.com.au.

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