Struggling North Queensland Cowboys have received a welcome boost with the news that Manase Manuokafoa has agreed to join the club from the start of the 2009 NRL season.
Manuokafoa currently plays for South Sydney Rabbitohs and the 23-year-old's arrival is likely see the departure of Cowboys prop forward Ray Cashmere.
North Queensland, who have slumped to foot of the NRL table under caretaker coach Ian Millward, have already agreed to release David Faiumu - who is set to join Huddersfield Giants - and it is understood that they will now allow Cashmere to explore other opportunities, possibly in Super League.
Manuokafoa has made 14 appearances for the Rabbitohs in 2008 and the Cowboys chief executive Peter Parr is delighted with the clubs new recruit.
“Manase is a young, gifted player, who will add both size and quality to our forward pack,” said Parr.
“It is great news that this talented forward has decided to play for the Cowboys.”