Newcastle star Mitch Barnett released from contract

Newcastle’s Mitch Barnett has announced he has signed with a rival NRL club after being granted a release from his contract.

Mitch Barnett given his marching orders. Photo: NRL Imagery.

Newcastle’s Mitch Barnett has been released from the final year of his contract to take up a deal with the Warriors.

Barnett has secured his long term future after agreeing to a three-year deal with the Warriors through to the end of 2025.

He will finish up 2022 with Newcastle before making his move.

Barnett was last month hit with a six-game suspension for a sickening elbow to the head of Penrith’s Chris smith — but he will be back in Knights colours before his move to New Zealand.

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The Knights announced on Tuesday the club had offered an extension to Barnett, but ultimately decided not to stand in his way from taking up the deal with the Kiwi club.

“The Warriors presented me with an opportunity to further my game,” Barnett said via a Warriors statement.

“I have personal goals of playing representative football and I am also looking forward to working with Brownie again.

“The Warriors impressed me on and off the field which made my decision easier.”

Mitch Barnett was sent off after collecting Penrith Panthers backrower Chris Smith with an elbow. Photo NRL Imagery.

“Once we were given permission to negotiate with Mitch five weeks ago, we couldn’t wait to get him across the line,” Warriors CEO Cameron George added.

“It’s exciting for our future knowing we have not only Mitch but also Dylan Walker, Marata Niukore and Luke Metcalf coming on board from next year. They’re adding quality depth to further strengthen our squad.”

The Knights’ statement revealed the club had granted permission for Barnett to begin to speak with rival clubs, despite remaining under contract until the end of 2023.

“The Newcastle Knights granted permission based on the exceptional service Barnett has given to the club and the respect he has earnt since joining the Knights in June 2016,” the club said in a statement.

“Barnett has a remaining year on his current contract and the Knights offered an extension into 2024. However, both parties have agreed that the decision to accept the other offer is the right decision for Mitch, his wife Clare and newborn son Nate.

“The Knights would like to wish “Barney” and his family all the very best for the future, with everyone agreeing to make the remainder of 2022 a fitting farewell to a great clubman.”