Michael Jennings joins Roosters

Michael Jemmings: Image credit: ABC

The Sydney Roosters believe the Michael Jennings signing coup makes them a complete team that can now challenge for the NRL premiership.

Jennings was granted a full release from his hefty Penrith deal on Tuesday, clearing the way for the star NSW centre to immediately join the Roosters on a four-year deal understood to be worth $2 million.

The addition of the brilliant 24-year-old, on top of recruits Sonny Bill Williams and James Maloney, has rocketed the Roosters into premiership contention.

Recruitment officer Peter O'Sullivan said it was a "great day" for the foundation club.

"He'll complete our footy team," O'Sullivan told AAP on Tuesday.

Jennings and New Zealand international Shaun Kenny-Dowall will be the Roosters strike centre pairing behind halves Maloney and Mitchell Pearce.

Anthony Minichiello will captain the team from the wing while Williams headlines a young, aggressive pack.

But Jennings provides the explosive try-scoring threat the Roosters have lacked in recent seasons.

"He's just got that pure speed that we may lack," O'Sullivan said.

"His ability to break the line and finish and score tries - it's a trait that very few players in the game have.

"We're obviously tickled pink to get him here."

Jennings had been linked with several rival clubs, including Gold Coast and Cronulla, as the Panthers desperately tried to clear up salary cap space.

His Roosters contract is an entirely new deal, meaning Penrith will not be required to subsidise the deal as had been expected.

It opens the way for the Panthers to chase a marquee signing in 2014, with off-contract North Queensland, Maroons and Australia halfback Johnathan Thurston believed to be at the top of their wish-list.

Jennings also fell out of favour with Panthers boss Phil Gould, reportedly over attitude problems.

But O'Sullivan said after consulting Minichiello and Pearce, who played with Jennings at State of Origin level, the Roosters had no doubts over the quality of his character.

"Sometimes in a relationship things can go sour and perception is reality," he said.

"Sometimes it's better for players and clubs to part company and I think they were probably at that stage.

"We've got no qualms with him about (his attitude). I'm sure he'll come here and be a pro and be a leader."

When contacted Jennings declined to comment on the switch, but said in a statement that he was excited to join coach Trent Robinson's talent-laden roster, and also to reunite with Origin teammate Pearce.

Pearce played a large role in the recruitment of Jennings, who follows in the footsteps of Roosters great Brad Fittler in abandoning Penrith for Bondi.

"Mitchell knows him best and obviously Mini has played with him as well," O'Sullivan said.

"Their opinions were sourced and they couldn't wait to get him here.

"I'm sure they'll strike up a good combination."

Roosters chief operating officer of football Brian Canavan said Jennings, who has represented NSW five times, would add much-needed class to a backline after BJ Leilua's departure and Tautau Moga's knee injury.

"A player of immense talent, Michael is a great addition to our squad," Canavan said.

"Michael will add potency to our backline. NRL.COM