South Sydney have moved to replace the departing Dave Taylor by securing the services of hard-hitting Brisbane back-rower Ben Te’o on a three-year deal from the start of next NRL season.

Taylor agreed terms last month to join Gold Coast after his family failed to settle in NSW, and the Rabbitohs moved for the former Wests Tiger, who was 18th man for Queensland in last year’s State of Origin series.

“I’ve met with Ben and he’s a highly motivated young man who wants to achieve great heights in rugby league,” said Souths coach Michael Maguire.

“He’s prepared to work hard to achieve his and the team’s goals, in terms of premiership success and playing representative football.

“It’s this drive and work ethic that led us to approaching him about joining the Rabbitohs for the next three years and beyond.

“He’ll add experience and power to our pack in attack and defence and we’re looking forward to welcoming him next year.”