Winger Macdonald joins St George Illawarra

St George Illawarra have announced their first major signing for next season, with improved winger Nene Macdonald agreeing to a three-year deal to join the club.

Macdonald has been one of Gold Coast’s best in their surprise push to a finals spot this season, and he will be a boost to a Dragons attack that has failed to fire in 2016.

Dragons head of recruitment Ian Millward describes Macdonald one of the form wingers of the league who has been identified to be an aerial target on the left edge.

After making his NRL debut for the Sydney Roosters in 2014, Macdonald has scored 10 tries in 21 games this season for the Titans.

“We were looking for a proven NRL player with an ability to score tries, which he has this year for Gold Coast,” Millward said.

“We were looking for that player that’s in-form in the NRL at the moment.

“It’s not only about scoring tries, it’s about being able to make metres from kick returns and complement a player like Josh Dugan and Jason Nightingale.”

Millward also revealed that utility Adam Quinlan has been told his contract will not be renewed.

Quinlan joins first-grade regulars Benji Marshall and Mitch Rein on the outer.

Millward also responded to speculation boom rookie Luciano Leilua is headed elsewhere.

“If I was a Red V member, I wouldn’t read too much into speculation he’s going somewhere else. We are talking regularly to his parents and we’re confident they want him to stay at the Dragons,” he said.

The Dragons remain without an established hooker and halfback for next season.

“We have some targets and some options in those positions for 2017,” Millward said.

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