The PNG Chiefs have confirmed the signing of Kiwi international Joseph Manu, which will see him return to the NRL competition in 2028.
Manu joins a stacked top-line level of talent, making the switch to Port Moresby ahead of the 2028 NRL season, with Manu inking a two-year contract.
The former Roosters centre visited the country in July and will join the likes of Jarome Luai, Alex Johnston, Brian To'o, and Zac Lomax to form a formidable backline in their maiden season.
Chiefs general manager Michael Chammas says Manu will add great depth and class to the side in its early years.
“We're thrilled to add Joey to our squad moving forward,” Chammas said in a Chiefs statement.
“He is a world-class footballer with versatility across several positions and can change a game in a single moment with the skills he possesses.
“His experience and demonstrated success at the highest level will be a great benefit to our team, and we can't wait to see him have a significant impact in the Chiefs jersey.”
Manu has played 181 NRL games, scoring 69 tries during his time in the 13-man code.
Since he departed from the Roosters in 2024, Manu has been playing French rugby on a lucrative deal with Racing 92, where he will play next year before moving to Papua New Guinea.
The 30-year-old star has also donned the black and white New Zealand Kiwis colours on 17 occasions, and was crowned the Golden Boot winner in 2022.
Chiefs CEO Lorna McPherson says Manu's signing for the Chiefs is greater than just his playing ability.
“Joey is another key signing for us and a further demonstration of the ambition we have for this club in making an impact for the people of Papua New Guinea. His connection to the Pacific, his character, experience and standing in the game will have a profound impact on our club," she said.
“He understands the responsibility that comes with representing something bigger than himself, and we believe he can have a genuine impact on our young players and the next generation of Papua New Guineans – who we are proud to represent as a club.”
Manu's signing marks the highly publicised '007' hint the club has been alluding to for some time on its social media.
The Chiefs will commence preseason training in November next year ahead of its 2028 inaugural season.
