Hayne’s leaving big boost for Titans

JARRYD Hayne’s departure has given Gold Coast a $1.3 million war chest it can use to exploit an NRL loophole and become a premiership powerhouse.

Hayne was released yesterday to return to Sydney and be closer to his 11-month-old daughter, paving the way for the two-time Dally M Medal winner to reunite with Parramatta.

The Titans are considering banking a portion of the $1 million they have freed up, combined with money reserved in the salary cap, to build one of the richest squads for 2019.

The NRL last night confirmed clubs were able to pay players in advance for the following year, a l low ing them to free up funds.

The Titans could get through next season with a l o w- p r o f i l e fullback and forward pay players, giving them a bumper salary cap to launch a signing spree.

“We’re not going to rush out and panic-sign someone,” coach Garth Brennan said.

“We have a lot of money if the right person becomes available to strengthen our squad. If there is a marquee player out there who ticks the boxes then by all means we’re in a position to speak to them.

“It’s about bringing someone in who’s going to strengthen our squad, not just for 2018 but 2019, 2020 and 10 years down the track.”

Hayne’s Titans career came to an end yesterday 16 months after it started.

The Gold Coast sold its soul with a $2.4 million deal that gifted him too much power.

His mostly poor on-field form and falling out with former coach Neil Henry have hurt Hayne’s reputation.

He said his decision was based on his desire to live closer to daughter Beliviah, who recently relocated to Sydney with mother Amelia Bonnici.