Leeds prop Paul Aiton will join a rival Super League club next season after rejecting a new contract, the Rhinos have announced.
The 30-year-old Papua New Guinea international had an option in the three-year contract he signed in 2013 to terminate 12 months early and he has decided to invoke that clause.
The Rhinos did offer a new three-year deal but terms could not be agreed and Aiton, an ever-present for the Super League leaders this season, wants to move on.
Aiton, who has been linked with Catalans Dragons, said, "I have been speaking with the club for a number of months now and unfortunately we have been unable to reach an agreement for next year and beyond.
"I remain totally committed to the Rhinos cause for the remainder of the season and want to finish my time at the club on the best possible note.
"Unfortunately as a professional rugby player you have to make tough decisions like this for yourself and your family as our earning potential is only over a short period of time compared to everyone else."
Leeds, who signed Aiton from neighbours Wakefield, are reluctant to see the player leave Headingley.
Coach Brian McDermott said, "Paul has shown good form this season and I and the club wanted him to stay, but I respect his decision and I have no doubt he will continue to perform to his best until the end of the season."
A statement from Leeds said Aiton was leaving "to take up an offer with another Super League club".
Chief executive Gary Hetherington said, "It's not come as a surprise because Paul rejected a new three-year contract from us and told us of interest from other clubs some time ago, but it is always disappointing when a player of Paul's standing decides to leave the club."
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