St George Illawarra Dragons winger Christian Tuipulotu will exit the club to join St. Helens in 2027 on a three-year-deal.
The English Super League club confirmed the addition of the Tongan international to their lineup after establishing himself across three NRL teams during his career.
Tuipulotu started his NRL career with the Sydney Roosters in 2020, before making the switch across town to the Manly Sea Eagles, playing 32 games across three seasons, then moving to the Dragons, where he has notched up 30 since his 2024 arrival.
He marked his international debut with Tonga in 2022, playing against the New Zealand Kiwis in Auckland.
The 25-year-old brings strong carries out of his own end, damaging power, and has proven to be a handful to stop close to the try line.
It marks the second signing for St. Helens since Kangaroos coach Kevin Walters was announced to take over the coaching helm at the club in 2027.
“I'm very excited! I know a few of the boys already, and I know the Club has got such a long and storied history. I'm pumped to come and add to the team. It's going to be a big change for my partner and me, but I'm really looking forward to it," Tuipulotu said in a Saints statement.
Established Tongan players Agnatius Paasi, Konrad Hurrell and Will Hopoate have all donned the red and white colours, with Tuipulotu adding to the rich representation of Tongan heritage in England.
“I spoke to Koni [Hurrell], and he was just telling me about the place and how good of a club St.Helens is," he added.
"After speaking to him, it made me even more excited to come over, but he did say it's going to be cold, though!”
Tuipulotu was full of praise for incoming coach Walters and the impact he will have on his development.
“Kevin's played and coached at some of the best teams in the world. I've got no doubt he's going to be great at St.Helens, and I'm excited to learn off him, pick his brains, and be part of it," he said.
Tuipulotu became a fan-favourite at the Dragons during his time in the top grade with his high energy and post-try celebrations.
Former NRL player and Catalans centre Solomona Faataape will also make the switch to St. Helens in 2027.
The club missed the play-offs for the first time this year after a 48-10 defeat to the Leigh Leopards ended their 2026 chances.
Walters and Tuipulotu's inclusion next year boosts hopes of returning to the top six and restoring their status as a powerhouse Super League club.
