Mid-season recruit Chris Grevsmuhl has officially begun his NRL career at Penrith after training with the club on Friday.
The second-year forward was granted a release from South Sydney on Tuesday and then joined his new teammates for the first time for training after signing a two-and-a-half year deal.
Grevsmuhl is unlikely to take on Gold Coast on Sunday but will likely be available for selection for their next game in round 13 against Melbourne following next week's bye.
"I'm excited to join the Panthers and can't wait to pull the boots on and get started," Grevsmuhl told the club's website.
Grevsmuhl joins a crowded second-row ensemble at Penrith that includes NSW State of Origin hopeful Bryce Cartwright, Tyrone Peachey, Isaah Yeo and rookie James Fisher-Harris.
The 23-year-old Grevsmuhl, who has scored eight tries in 29 NRL games for the Rabbitohs, said he was eager to push for a spot in the 17.
"It's going to be a great challenge (against) great young blokes, good footballers and just gotta find a spot now and make it my own. I'm excited by the challenge," he said.
Grevsmuhl had already agreed to a two-year contract with the Panthers at the start of the season but sought an early release after reportedly falling out of favour with Rabbitohs coach Michael Maguire.
