The New Zealand Warriors have released winger Marcelo Montoya from the final year of his contract to return to Australia amid links with the Bulldogs.

The 28-year-old former Fiji Bati international was off contract at the end of next season

after originally joining the club in 2021.

“We were keen for Marcelo to see out his contract with us but we’re really pleased he has

found a club back in Australia giving him longer term security,” said One New Zealand

Warriors general manager recruitment, pathways and development Andrew McFadden.

“He has been a terrific person to have at our club for the last four seasons. He made a

major contribution on and off the field and we wish him and his wife Tayla all the best for

their future.”

Montoya joined the One New Zealand Warriors from Canterbury Bankstown in the Covid

era, spending his first two seasons with the club in Australia.

He scored 30 tries in his 82 appearances for the Warriors, playing all 27 games in 2023.

The Manly Sea Eagles have bolstered their forward depth by signing former Warriors forward Jazz Tevaga on a one-year deal for season 2025.

“New Sea Eagles signing Jazz Tevaga is set to bring plenty of experience and added toughness to the Manly pack in 2025,” the club said in a statement.

The 29-year-old arrives at Manly on a one-year-deal after playing 138 NRL games for the Warriors from 2016-2024.

“Jazz has played in finals and has had a lot experience over there in New Zealand. He has also represented Samoa,’’ said Manly Coach Anthony Seibold.

“He brings that grit and toughness to what we have already got here. We feel like he will be a good addition to our group.”