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Newcastle have granted Sione Mata'utia an early release from the final year of his contract with the NRL club to join English Super League team St Helens.

Newcastle backrower Sione Mata'utia has been granted an immediate release by the NRL club to take up an offer with English Super League team St Helens.

The 24-year-old faced being squeezed out of first-team contention by the looming arrival of NSW State of Origin representative Tyson Frizell, who is joining the Knights on a three-year deal from the 2021 season.

Mata'utia debuted for the Knights in 2014 and made 124 appearances for his hometown club.

He also made three Test appearances for Australia, becoming the Kangaroos' youngest player when he debuted in 2014 aged just 18 years and 129 days.

Mata'utia would also go on to play a Test for Samoa.

"He's been a great servant for the club, in both good and tough times, while his attitude and commitment both on and off the field has always been outstanding," Knights coach Adam O'Brien said.

"We are really pleased to see him get an opportunity to extend his career in England and the chance to travel with his family.

"He is a great young man, who leaves the club with the highest regard."