Joey Manu, a two-time premiership champion, has been officially revealed as the PNG Chiefs' surprise 007 signing, confirming his move to the club.
The NRL's newest franchise announced that Manu has agreed to a two-year contract starting in the 2028 season, enhancing their promising backline.
After departing the Sydney Roosters in 2024 to play in Japan and France, Manu is set to return to league in PNG colors, similar to Zac Lomax's journey with the Western Force.
At 30 years old, Manu has spent most of his career as a center, but his occasional stint in the halves offers PNG valuable flexibility in attack, a point noted by Chiefs general manager, Michael Chammas.
"We're thrilled to add Joey to the squad moving forward," Chammas expressed.
"He is a world-class footballer with versatility across several positions and can change a game in a single moment with the skills he possesses."
"His experience and demonstrated success at the highest level will be a great benefit to the team and we can't wait to see him have a significant impact in the Chiefs jersey."
Manu joins fellow signings Jarome Luai, Alex Johnston, Connor Watson, Matty Lees, Zac Lomax, and Brian To'o.
The Chiefs may have a busy period ahead, as they are reportedly pursuing Canberra second-rower Hudson Young, who has been given time to negotiate with them.
Rumors surrounding PNG's interest in either Nathan Cleary or Sam Walker persist, while Melbourne's five-eighth and Queensland captain Cameron Munster is also a name linked to the club, though Luai's signing has impacted his prospects.