Parramatta have confirmed the signing of Beau Scott from Newcastle from the start of the 2016 NRL season after the NSW backrower was granted an early release from the final two years of his contract on compassionate grounds.
Scott has agreed terms on a three-year deal with the Eels having joined the Knights in 2013 from St George Illawarra.
"Beau has been an outstanding contributor to our club since his arrival but genuine compassionate matters have forced him to return to Sydney to be closer to family support," Newcastle CEO Matt Gidley said.
"While we as a club have done everything in our power to support Beau and his family over the last 12 months, we acknowledge that certain circumstances go beyond the reach of any employer.
"We wish Beau the very best for his future, both personally and professionally, and look forward to him returning to the field and leading our team throughout the remainder of this season."
The 30-year-old, who is currently sidelined with an ankle injury, said it was a difficult decision for him to make but one that he has ultimately made for his family.
"Our family situation changed significantly following our move to Newcastle," Scott said.
"For this reason alone we have decided it is in the best interest of our young family to return to Sydney to be close to our family network, as we will very much need their support in the coming years.
"This has been a very weighty decision for us to make.
"We are extremely grateful to Matt Gidley, (coach) Rick Stone and the Newcastle Knights for the empathy they have shown and for their continuous help and support.
"We couldn't have hoped for more."
Eels coach Brad Arthur said the arrival of Scott is a huge boost for a squad that will also be bolstered by the arrival of Kieran Foran from Manly.
"As an Origin and Australian player, Beau's talent and experience on the field speaks for itself, and he will be a great leader for our younger players," Arthur said.
"I'm looking forward to having Beau join our side for the next three years."
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