TRENT Merrin is a “professional” who won’t have a problem focusing on St George Illawarra this season — despite having already signed with a rival club for 2016.

Merrin on Monday confirmed he would leave the Dragons after this season and play for Penrith until the end of 2018.

Dragons fans took to social media questioning how Merrin could remain committed to the Red V having already agreed to be a Panther.

Merrin’s manager Wayne Beavis, though claimed his client would remain committed throughout this season.

“That won’t be a problem,” Beavis said.

“Not at all.

“Trent is a focused kid, he’s a professional. He is a State of Origin player.”

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Penrith officials were beaming that Merrin would head west. The Dragons offered Merrin big money — but the Panthers offered more.

“This is one of the most significant player signings this club has made in its 49-year history,” said Panthers general manager Phil Gould.

“Trent has been part of a premiership-winning team and already achieved 10 State of Origin appearances for NSW. At 25 years of age we believe Trent is about to enter the prime time of his playing career with his best football still in front of him.

“Apart from his obvious playing talents, Trent brings valuable experience and leadership qualities to the Panthers. We are very excited about this signing.”

Dragons coach Paul McGregor could not be contacted for comment.

Beavis released a statement which read: “Trent would like to thank his current club St George Illawarra for the playing opportunity and contribution they have made to his football development over the last 10 years and wishes them well for the future.

“Trent is looking forward to the season ahead with great expectation and is also excited about the new challenge his link with the Panthers will bring.”

Panthers CEO Justin Pascoe added: “Trent is an outstanding footballer and person and will add enormous experience and value to our existing squad and also our young forwards coming through our pathway program.

“We are extremely honoured that Trent has chosen to join our organisation in 2016 for three years and it gives us a great amount of satisfaction that all the work we are doing on and off the field is proving to be attractive to those outside the organisation.”

Merrin will start training with Penrith this November.