Wests Tigers utility back Corey Thompson has left the club to take up a long-term contract at the Gold Coast Titans.
The Tigers announced on Monday he has secured a release, effective immediately, and he will prove a valuable addition to the Titans after their first-choice fullback AJ Brimson has been sidelined indefinitely with a back injury.
He will join the Titans immediately, and head north to join his new teammates this week in the hope of being available for selection in the team's return to Suncorp Stadium on Saturday for the home clash with the Dragons.
Thompson, who began his NRL career at Canterbury, joined the Wests Tigers from Widnes Vikings in Super League before the 2018 season and went on to score nine tries in 20 games for the club that year.
Playing primarily on the wing, the Queensland-born speedster played 22 games the following year and featured in the opening two games this season prior to the competition being temporarily suspended in March.
Thompson was thankful to the club for "all the support and faith you’ve shown in me".
"I’ve loved every second running out there and representing Wests Tigers. I wish the team nothing but success this year and thank you for everything."
Titans coach Justin Holbrook said he was excited about the qualities Thompson would bring to the Gold Coast.
"He is obviously a very good fullback with terrific speed and consistency, and the past few weeks under the new ruck rules have shown us just how important those qualities are in the modern game," Holbrook said.
"He brings good experience with over 100 top-level games in the NRL and Super League, he’s played in a grand final.
"But most importantly brings great values to the club in the way he prepares and good, honest qualities in the way he interacts with his coaches and teammates.
"He is an anticipation player, who plays what is in front of him, and a Queensland guy excited about the chance to come home."
Wests Tigers CEO Justin Pascoe described Thompson as a thoroughly committed professional on and off the field.
"Corey has always carried himself tremendously well on and off the field.
"The chance for him to head home to Queensland for the first time in his career on a long-term deal is a valuable opportunity for him and his family."