St George Illawarra sign Titans utility Paul Turner for 2023 season

Liam O'Loughlin

St George Illawarra sign Titans utility Paul Turner for 2023 season image

Paul Turner has been granted an early from his contract with the Titans, inking a two-year deal with St George Illawarra for the 2023 season.

The 22-year-old moved to the Gold Coast last season but managed just seven appearances, coming off the bench and playing in the halves. 

Turner was contracted for this year with the Titans but the club wasn't willing to stand in the way of a longer opportunity at a rival club.

Dragons general manager of football Ben Haran welcomed the Kiwi young gun to the club and believes he will be a welcome addition.

MORE: St George Illawarra Dragons season preview | Gold Coast Titans season preview

"Paul brings that utility value we've been looking to add to the depth of the squad," he said.

"He'll prove to be a handy addition throughout the season and we look forward to him joining the squad on Monday."

St George Illawarra have endured a horror off-season, with both Talatau Amone and Cody Ramsey set to miss the entire campaign due to off-field incidents and illness respectively.

Zane Musgrove and Mikaele Ravalawa had to separated during a boozy post-match incident after the Charity Shield, before front-rower Francis Molo plead guilty to an intimidation charge. 

Turner will bring plenty of spark to the side's attack and his versatility make him a positive inclusion in the squad, with the New Zealand product able to cover all four positions in the spine. 

His former club wished him well after a short stint on the Gold Coast. 

"The Gold Coast Titans can confirm Paul Turner has been granted an early release to pursue other playing opportunities," a statement said. 

"The 22-year-old back played seven games for the Titans after joining the club from the New Zealand Warriors in 2022, which included the last three games of the season as a utility off the bench.

"He’ll join the Dragons in 2023 and will depart the Gold Coast to take up this opportunity immediately.

"The Titans thank Paul for his contribution during his time at the club."

Liam O'Loughlin

Liam O'Loughlin Photo

Liam has been with The Sporting News since 2019, helping lead both NRL and cricket content, as well as delving into the world of combat sports and NFL. A true rugby league tragic, he has spent the past 20 years playing, coaching and volunteering for his beloved junior club, Penshurst RSL. 

Away from work, Liam has a lifelong passion for all things pro wrestling and has travelled abroad to attend showcase events for WWE, AEW and NJPW.