English rugby league star Gareth Widdop has reportedly requested a release from his NRL deal with St George Illawarra, citing homesickness.

The 29-year-old Dragons captain shocked the club by expressing a desire to cut short his near $1 million a year contract to return home, Fairfax Media reports.

It’s understood the situation was still developing at the Dragons on Wednesday, with varying reports suggesting he could play on next season before a return to England.

Widdop still has three years to run on a four-year deal, which was extended until the end of 2021 by the Dragons in April 2017.

His departure would be a cruel blow to the Red V, who showed their premiership credentials at the start of 2018 with Widdop and Ben Hunt firing in the halves.

Their combination would likely have only improved in 2019, given their run to this year’s semi-finals was in their first season together.

The club also lack notable depth in the play-making department, with utility Kurt Mann and veteran reserve grader Darren Nicholls filling in at times.

Widdop was born in Halifax, England, but moved to Australia as a teenager.

He has previously suggested he would like to end his career in the Super League.