The Parramatta Eels have today confirmed the signing of Suaia Matagi for the 2017 and 2018 seasons.

Matagi is a Samoan and New Zealand representative player who has played 66 NRL games over the past four seasons, following his debut for the New Zealand Warriors in 2013.

Head Coach Brad Arthur said that Matagi is a strong addition to the team and brings more experience to the forward pack in 2017.

“Suaia’s journey to the NRL is a testament of hard work and dedication and I am delighted that we have been able to secure him for the next two years,” Head Coach Brad Arthur said.

“He played 23 games last year and showed the ability to mix it with the very best in the competition so I am sure our Members and fans are pleased that he will be part of the team in 2017.”

“Already in pre-season Suaia has given us a glimpse of the contribution he can make to the team as we prepare for next year."

Matagi joins Will Smith, Kirisome Auva’a, Nathan Brown, George Jennings, Siosaia Vave and Josh Hoffman as new signings for the Eels in 2017.