Penrith Panthers ambush Canterbury Bulldogs to sign Api Koroisau

In a shock move, Penrith have ambushed Canterbury by signing star Manly hooker Api Koroisau.

The Bulldogs have been in talks with Koroisau for weeks and were close to coming to terms on a rich three-year deal.

But Koroisau has decided on a last-minute switch to the Panthers, with the club announcing the surprise signing on a deal that goes until 2022.

Koroisau spent a year at Penrith in 2015 before moving to Manly, where had has become one of the best hookers in the NRL over the past three seasons.

But the Sea Eagles recently gave Koroisau permission to negotiate with rival clubs.

Manly has another top class rake in Manase Fainu and cannot afford to have two hookers on big money under the salary cap.

"I'm thrilled that we've been able to bring Api back to the club," Panthers coach Ivan Cleary said in a club statement.

"I had a high opinion of Api when I coached him previously and his game has only continued to develop in recent years.

"He's a man of good character and will provide valuable experience and leadership for our young squad moving forward."