NRL Market Watch: Melbourne Storm sign young prop Josiah Pahulu from Gold Coast Titans

Emerging prop talent Josiah Pahulu has landed a new club after the 21-year-old was granted an immediate release from the Gold Coast Titans.

Melbourne have strengthened their premiership quest after beating Newcastle to the signature of young Gold Coast prop Josiah Pahulu.

The Storm confirmed the Pahulu coup on Monday morning after the 21-year-old was granted an immediate release from the Titans.

The Knights were also in the mix for Pahulu but the chance to join Melbourne proved irrestistable.

“Josiah is a talented young footballer and an impressive individual,” Storm head of football Frank Ponissi said.

“He’s a dynamic young forward who has already shown impressive potential early in his NRL career.

“We’re confident he’ll make a strong impact and be a valuable addition to the talented group of emerging middle forwards in our squad and coming through our pathways program.

Josiah Pahulu has signed with the Storm.

“We’re excited to see what Josiah can achieve in Melbourne and delighted to welcome him to the club.”

Pahulu made 19 appearances for the Titans last season but was rested at the end of the season when one more appearance would have earned him a contract bonus.

The club offered to pay the bonus as part of an extension but Pahulu rejected the offer and headed to the open market.

“The Titans can confirm Josiah Pahulu has been granted an early release,” the Titans said.

“The club and Pahulu have been in discussions for some time but were unable to reach an agreement. In the best interests of both parties, Pahulu has been granted a release effective immediately.”