The North Queensland Cowboys have signed former Penrith Panthers half Te Maire Martin to the club until the end of the 2019 NRL season.

Martin, 21, will begin training with his new club this week after being granted a release from the Panthers.

"We always keep an eye on the player market, and when a chance to sign a quality player comes up, we explore that opportunity in line with our recruitment needs," said Cowboys football manager Peter Parr.

"Te Maire is a very good young footballer with plenty of potential and we're pleased that he will join our NRL squad for the remainder of this season and beyond.

"He will add important depth to the halves position and we look forward to him learning and further developing his skills under our coaching staff."

Read more at Cowboys.com.au