Tim Lafai is officially a free agent after being granted a release from Canterbury.

The Bulldogs are poised to welcome former Manly and Parramatta three-quarter Will Hopoate in a move clouding Lafai's future at the club.

Free man: Tim Lafai is being courted by several clubs after being granted a release from the Bulldogs. Credit:Getty Images

The Samoan international requested a release from the final two years of his contract and his management came to an agreement with the club late on Friday. The 24-year-old farewelled his Canterbury teammates earlier in the day.

"Tim's enjoyed his time at the Bulldogs and we're appreciative of the club culture and everything they have done for him," said his agent, David Rawlings.