Brisbane have released Joe Ofahengaue from his contract, allowing him to join Wests Tigers on three-year deal and trigger more movement around the league.

The Broncos enforcer signed a three-year deal to remain at Red Hill last year but will exit after a wooden spoon season in which he lost his Queensland State of Origin spot.

Ofahengaue’s departure after 105 games has allowed the Tigers to release prop Josh Aloiai from the final year of his contract – he is expected to head to Manly – while the Broncos are likely to replace the 25-year-old with versatile former North Queensland forward John Asiata.

It comes less than a week after Ofahengaue appeared at Brisbane pre-season training under new coach Kevin Walters, who has vowed to return Brisbane’s reputation as a destination club.

Tigers coach Michael Maguire said Ofahengaue’s experience and versatility appealed to him.

“Joe has a tremendous hunger and determination to produce his best football with Wests Tigers and we’re excited to see him on the field with us in 2021,” he said.

“At 25, Joe is already an experienced forward in the NRL who has played at an extremely high level in his career and I know he will add a lot to our team in the years to come.”

Brisbane chief executive Paul White said Ofahengaue would depart on good terms.

“Joe has been a big part of the Broncos for close to a decade after starting in the NYC team in 2013 and working his way into first grade at the start of 2015,” White said.

“He played in a Grand Final in his first year of NRL, something not many players have achieved, and has gone on to play for Queensland in two Origin games, as well as Tonga at international level.

“Joe has made a lot of friends during his time at the club and he will be missed by all of us at the Broncos.

“Everyone at the club wishes Joe, Sofi and little Mila all the best in the future.”