The 29-year-old Englishman, who has played 24 Tests for his homeland, will play for the Dragons this year but then link up with the Warrington Wolves from 2020 on a three-year-deal after accepting a serious pay cut to leave the NRL.
The Daily Telegraph broke the news late on Tuesday night and was confirmed by the club on Wednesday morning.
Widdop’s deal with the Dragons is believed to worth about $1.8 million, but he told St George Illawarra officials of his desire to return home and compete in the Super League while he is still at the peak of his powers before Christmas — and the two parties have since been in negotiations.
In a statement released on Wednesday morning, the club confirmed Widdop has been released under the condition if he were to return to the NRL it would only be to the Dragons.
St George Illawarra captain Gareth Widdop has opted to walk away from the final two years of his contract at the Dragons so he can return home and play in the UK Super League.
