Melbourne have bolstered their forward stocks for 2023, confirming representative forward Tariq Sims will join the Storm from St George Illawarra.
Signing a one-year contract, the arrival of Sims will offset the loss of Felise Kaufusi, Jesse Bromwich and Kenny Bromwich to competition newcomers the Dolphins next year.
The 32-year-old began his NRL career with the North Queensland Cowboys in 2011 and has now played 209 NRL matches, as well as five Tests for Fiji and five games for the Blues, including all three matches in the starting pack in last year's series win against Queensland.
Sims was told in the off-season that his contract wouldn't be renewed by the Dragons.
Melbourne could use Sims immediately with Christian Welch (Achilles) and Tui Kamikamica (stood down) both unavailable but gave no hint they would seek an early release from the Dragons.
Sims' existing salary commitments with the Dragons could also be a barrier to an immediate move.
The club also announced that Joe Chan, the son of former Melbourne forward Alex Chan, who currently works as general manager at the Dragons, will also join the Storm on a two-year deal starting in 2023.
Chan is currently playing with French side Catalans Dragons in the Super League.
Playing in his second season, the 20-year-old is regarded as a versatile forward who can play in the middle or on the edge.
He made his Super League debut last year and experienced finals football in his rookie campaign.
His father Alex turned out in 32 games for Melbourne in the 2004 and 2005 seasons, as well as playing three Test matches for New Zealand.
