Newcastle Jets have released striker Chris Payne from his two-year A-League contract by mutual consent.

The 21-year-old former Sydney FC and North Queensland striker has failed to break into the Jets’ first team under Gary van Egmond this season and is being allowed to pursue other options.

“We wish Chris all the best in his future career and will continue to assist him to find another Club,” Jets chief executive Robbie Middleby said in a statement.

Payne, who has been linked with Gold Coast, is confident of continuing his career at another club.

“I want to wish the rest of the boys in the squad all the best, and I will now look to further my career at a new club and achieve my goals as I have a lot of ambition and can hopefully fulfil it with a new team,” Payne said.