Shaun Johnson signs with Cronulla Sharks on three-year deal

It's finally official: Kiwi international halfback Shaun Johnson has signed with the Cronulla Sharks until 2021.

Johnson met with Sharks coach Shane Flanagan and CEO Barry Russell in the Sutherland Shire on Saturday morning where he inked the three-year contract.

The flashy playmaker will briefly return home to New Zealand before flying back to Australia to meet his new teammates next week.

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He will formally begin pre-season training at the Sharks in the first week of January.



The 28-year-old, who made his NRL debut in 2011 for the New Zealand Warriors, said he was relieved and thrilled to have his future sorted.

"It's been a crazy few weeks but it's good to lock it all away. I can't wait to get over here and to rip in. It's really exciting," Johnson said.

"I want to add value where I can. The Sharks are a tough side, they know how to win and that's what I'm really excited to be a part of.

"I'll enjoy the break for now but I definitely can't wait to get over here, meet the boys and get stuck in with them."

Johnson is expected to slot in at five-eighth next season alongside incumbent half Chad Townsend, who he played with at the Warriors in 2014 and '15.

He said Townsend's presence would make his transition to the club easier.

"Obviously I've played against the boys for a few years now (and gotten to know them), but in particular Chad Townsend," Johnson said.

He then joked: "I think he was trying to divert me (from the Sharks) – he's a little scared I might come over and beat him in golf."

Johnson added that he grew up around beaches in New Zealand and felt comfortable in the Cronulla area.



Meanwhile, coach Flanagan couldn't hide his delight at snaring Johnson.

"Shaun's football talent is going to be a huge plus for our team and his experience will undoubtedly help with the development of our younger players," Flanagan said.

"Players like Jayden (Brailey), Kyle (Flanagan) and Blayke (Brailey) are some who can only benefit from having Shaun in our team."

Sharks boss Russell also heralded the coup of the 2014 Golden Boot winner.

"The signing of one of the world's best halves should be celebrated," Russell said.

"Shaun accepting our offer is an endorsement of our team and the football program we have here.

"He will add a tremendous amount to our squad next season.

"He is one of the most electrifying players on the world stage, I'm really looking forward to seeing him play for the Sharks and I hope our members and fans are as excited as I am about the prospect of Shaun representing the Cronulla club."

Johnson has played 162 first-grade games, all for the Warriors, and 29 international matches for the Kiwis.

He is the highest point-scorer in Warriors history with 917 points, scoring 63 tries, 326 goals and 13 field goals.

Johnson requested – and was subsequently granted – a release from the final year of his New Zealand contract having being told he wasn't wanted beyond 2019. 

Cronulla was able to secure Johnson's services after star fullback Valentine Holmes walked out on the team to chase an NFL dream, freeing up a hefty amount of cash.

His arrival in the Shire will give Sharks fans a much-needed morale boost, with the club believed to be in financial dire straits.