The Sydney Roosters have moved to shore up their playmaking stocks in the post-Cooper Cronk era by signing rising Cronulla halfback Kyle Flanagan.
The 20-year-old will join the Roosters on a two-year deal, starting next season.
Flanagan has played eight NRL matches after making his debut for the Sharks late last season.
"Kyle is a crafty playmaker and an exciting young talent, whose services we are delighted to have secured," said Roosters CEO Joe Kelly.
"We look forward to welcoming Kyle to the Roosters and to watching his development over the coming seasons."
Cronk announced in May that he would retire at the end of the year after a glittering career for Melbourne, Queensland, Australia and for the past two seasons, the Roosters, including his memorable performance in the 2018 grand final win over the Storm.
The Sharks released Flanagan from the final two years of his contract to allow him to take up the deal with the Roosters. Kiwi international Shaun Johnson and premiership-winning playmaker Chad Townsend are established in the halves ahead of Flanagan at Cronulla.
"It is disappointing to leave my junior club but I feel that I am ready to play regular NRL," Flanagan said.
Every try from Round 18
"The club has been such a big part of my life and it is tough to leave. I will be doing everything I can to get back in the team and finish the year on a positive note."
Sharks coach John Morris expressed his disappointment in losing a young player of his ability, one who has come through the club's academy and junior development system.
"We are always disappointed to see our home-grown talent move on, but in saying that we respect Kyle’s decision in requesting the release and wish him well in his future endeavours," Morris said.
"He has proven his ability to play at an NRL level but obviously he thought his best opportunity to play in the NRL was elsewhere."
