Tahu in Knights homecoming

Dual code international Timana Tahu is set to make a dramatic return to Newcastle next year, eight seasons after he first left.

Tahu, 30, is currently on a one-year deal with Penrith but will join the Knights on a two-year deal next season.

Melbourne-born Tahu grew up in the area and played his junior football with Central Charlestown.

“I am so excited about coming home to the Knights at a time when the Club has commenced an exciting era with private ownership, a variety of new faces, a new stadium and the arrival of Wayne Bennett,” said Tahu.

“My family is based in Newcastle and it will be a great feeling to again run out to a sea of red and blue in front of my family and friends.”

He was the Knights leading try scorer in 2000, 2001 and 2002 having scored 82 tries for the club, he also made 11 State of Origins, 5 Kangaroo and 4 Wallaby appearances.

The former Wallaby,  who made his Knights debut at 18, is currently sidelined with a torn pectoral muscle.

“I would like to thank the Penrith club, its coaches and my team mates for their support and wish them all the best for the future,” Tahu added.

The Knights say incoming coach Wayne Bennett was “instrumental” in bringing Tahu back to the club.