NRL: Former Kiwis fullback signs with Parramatta

New Zealand Kiwis halfback Shaun Johnson celebrates with Josh Hoffman after a runaway try against Australia. Photo / Brett Phibbs

Parramatta have added Gold Coast utility Josh Hoffman to their squad for the 2017 NRL season on a three-year deal.

Hoffman, who has played 158 NRL games during stints with the Titans and Brisbane, was granted a release from the final year of his three-year deal with Gold Coast on Tuesday.

The 28-year-old speedster will remain at Parramatta at least until the end of the 2020 season.

"Josh brings tremendous NRL experience and can play anywhere from one to six," Eels coach Brad Arthur said.

Hoffman played all 25 games for the Titans this year, but his future at the Queensland club was placed under a cloud by the acquisition of star fullback Jarryd Hayne.

The New Zealand international, who has also represented the Indigenous All Stars, joins Nathan Brown, George Jennings and Siosaia Vave as the Eels' new signings for 2017.

Titans coach Neil Henry paid tribute to the out-going centre as "durable and versatile", while Arthur expected his addition would intensify competition for spots in the Eels' backline.

- AAP