Teenage NRL star Moses Suli is expected to join the Canterbury Bulldogs after the promising winger was released from the Wests Tigers on Wednesday.
Suli, who made headlines last year for signing what was believed to be the most lucrative deal for a player yet to appear in first grade, played 17 games for the Tigers in 2017.
However, it's understood the he has struggled to meet the demands of the NRL off the field in the past 12 months, and the Tigers made the decision to release him well before his contract was due to expire in 2020.
"We are working really hard both on and off the field to build something special here at Wests Tigers," chief executive Justin Pascoe said in a club statement.
"That includes building a culture and set of standards that cannot be compromised."
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It's believed the Tigers had made several efforts to accommodate Suli in his time at the club, after he was signed to what was believed to be a $1.3million contract extension last January.
After meetings between the Tigers and his manager Mario Tartak, it was determined the 19-year-old would be released out of coach Ivan Cleary's squad.
Due to the nature of the release, it's understood the Tigers will not be liable for any of Suli's salary under the cap going forward.
"Moses is an exceptionally talented player," Pascoe said.
"That's why over the last 12 months our coaching and personal development staff have dedicated so much time and energy in supporting Moses with his challenges, both on and off the field.
""I am sure if he's willing to take responsibility, be a team player and commit to the demands of being a professional athlete he has the potential to have a successful career in rugby league."
Suli is battling to recover from stress fractures in his foot that ruled him out of the end of last season and was in doubt for the opening rounds of 2018.
"While it's always disappointing to see player part ways with a club, the Wests Tigers have been completely transparent, professional and empathetic throughout this process," Tartak said.
Suli is likely to be forced to fight for his spot in a new-look Canterbury backline, that will include Moses Mbye at fullback, the Morris twins, Josh and Brett, and Will Hopoate in the centres.
