Market watch: Terrell May joins Wests Tigers after official release by the Roosters

The Wests Tigers have pounced on Samoan star Terrell May on a three-year deal after the hard-working middle forward was given permission by the Roosters to sort out his long-term future with a new club.

May played all 27 games for the Roosters last season and finished the year with the most offloads out of all the props in the NRL, with several clubs fighting for his signature over the past few days.

The Tigers have beaten out the Dragons for his services, with May to join the likes of Jarome Luai, Sunia Turuva and Jack Bird at the club next season.

“I’m really excited about this opportunity, and I can’t wait to get stuck into pre-season,” May said after confirmation of his three-year deal.

“This is a club with a very bright future, and I want to be a big part of that future.

“I know quite a few of the boys really well and they all speak fondly of the club and its people.”

 

It’s a crucial get for Benji Marshall who is assembling a squad to ensure the Tigers don’t make it four wooden spoons in a row.

“Terrell is a good person first and foremost, and it’s great that he will be joining us,” Marshall said.

“He’s coming off an impressive season, and at just 25, his best years are ahead of him.

“I look forward to welcoming Terrell and his family to our club.”

The Tigers also needed a leader in the middle after Stefano Utoikamanu signed with the Storm, with the club unsuccessful in their bid to sign Kobe Hetherington and Corey Horsburgh.

May played three seasons for the Roosters and emerged as one of the best bench props in the game which saw him named the inaugural impact player of the year in the Rugby League Players Association Dream Team.