Coach Shane Flanagan vowed in September that the Dragons, having already secured the signatures of Damien Cook and Valentine Holmes, needed more fresh faces to become the "hard-nosed rugby league team" he wanted.Ben Hunt's dramatic exit, with a year to run on his contract, has only heightened the importance of that recruitment drive in what will be a busy off-season stretch.
Flanagan was thrilled to secure the signature of Parramatta co-captain Gutherson, who has played at fullback, wing, centre and five-eighth during a 211-game NRL career.
"Clint will be a fantastic addition to our squad over the next three seasons," Flanagan said.
"He is not just an elite fullback; he also brings leadership, competitiveness, toughness and versatility.
"In addition to his obvious on-field qualities he will also be a huge asset to our emerging players over the coming years."
FAREWELL, KING. 👑— Parramatta Eels (@TheParraEels) Today we say goodbye to Clint Gutherson, who departs the Eels after nine years of incredible service to the club. Thank you for everything Gutho… a Parra legend. 💙💛 Club Statement �� https://t.co/Hqc85J0GjK #PARRAdise pic.twitter.com/GWFjavWufJNovember 7, 2024
Flanagan is yet to indicate what Gutherson's likely role will be as the Dragons attempt to return to finals for the first time since 2018.
Fullback Tyrell Sloan, who signed a two-year extension in June then was dropped by Flanagan soon after, was already set to come under selection pressure from Holmes.
Gutherson has skippered the Eels since 2018 and helped guide the side into the 2022 grand final.
The Eels granted 30-year-old Gutherson a release from the final year of his contract to take up the lucrative deal with St George Illawarra.
"I feel really excited and honoured to be able to come here and put this jersey on and have that badge on my chest," Gutherson said in a Dragons statement.
"The rich history that this club has is second to none.
"The direction the club went in this year and where Flano and the staff are taking the club is something I want to be a part of.
"I think I can offer a lot to where we're trying to go over the next few years. I'm looking forward to the challenge and what lies ahead."
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