Api Amone has signed a long-term deal with Canterbury that keeps him at the Bulldogs through the 2029 season, his management confirmed.
The 17-year-old captained Illawarra's Harold Matthews Cup team in 2026, when it finished fourth. Teammate Noah Fitzgerald has also made a long-term move to Canterbury.
Api represented the Under 16s City side in 2025 and has schoolboy rugby league representative honours.
His brother Viliami, a forward able to play front or second row, will remain with St George Illawarra for 2027 after agreeing to a one-year extension.
Viliami turned down strong interest from rival clubs, according to the article. He has progressed through the Dragons' pathway system and was part of the 2021 Illawarra Steelers Harold Matthews squad with Dylan Egan and Hamish Stewart.
After helping his Jersey Flegg team win this season's minor premiership, Viliami played four games off the bench in NSW Cup.
The brothers are younger siblings of former Dragons player Talatau Amone, who made 54 NRL appearances before leaving after an off-field incident. He has since revived his career with Queensland Cup side Wynnum Manly Seagulls, with NRL interest reported and suggestions he could join Tonga's Rugby League World Cup squad.