The contract is reportedly worth $900,000 a season and could not be matched by Canterbury.

Coach Des Hasler expressed his disappointment at seeing Reynolds move on despite Kieran Foran being heavily linked to Belmore.  

"Josh is an outstanding footballer and a quality human being. He is incredibly well respected by our playing group and someone who has made an enormous contribution to the Bulldogs on and off the field,” he said.

“I know that Josh is dedicated to this team and will finish the season strongly.”

The news is a massive boost for Wests who will lose No.6 Mitchell Moses at the end of the year with captain Aaron Woods and fullback James Tedesco also moving on.

Reynolds, who is in top current form, said he was sad to be leaving the club he made his NRL debut for in 2011.

“I have had a fantastic time with the Bulldogs and loved every minute of it. The mates I have made from here will be mates forever and this is all that really matters to me,” he said.

“The decision was the toughest I have ever had to make in my whole life but I wish the Bulldogs the best in the future. It is important for the club and myself that we focus everything on the team playing good football and finishing the season strongly.

“To everyone who has supported me through my career at the Bulldogs I am highly appreciative and it will never be forgotten."