Catalans

Pearce has been strongly linked to an immediate move to French Super League club, Catalans Dragons, to finish out his professional career.

The 32-year-old formally asked for a release from the Knights last month after meeting with club powerbrokers.

Newcastle announced that Pearce had been released effective immediately, so he could take the French deal with a reported $1.8 million over three years.

“The Newcastle Knights have agreed to grant Mitchell Pearce a release to join English Super League Club, Catalans Dragons,” a club statement read.

Four years ago they were on the cusp of relegation. Now, the Catalans Dragons are the first French side to ever qualify for the Super League grand final.

Next week’s final will pit the Catalans against Leeds or St Helens, but the clash at Old Trafford will also mark the end of James Maloney’s career.

The larger-than-life halfback has announced plans to retire at the end of this season and will now sign off in the biggest game of the year.

Maloney kicked four goals as the Dragons downed Hull Kingston Rovers in a 28-10 victory at a sold-out Stade Gilbert Brutus.