The 28-year-old was tipped to return to where he debuted as an 18-year-old after significant cash was freed from the club’s salary cap following the release of Kieran Foran.

But Hayne said the ongoing sagas at Parramatta halted his return.  

“Over the last few weeks I have waited for an offer from the Eels but unfortunately due to instability with the board, no formal offer was put on the table,” he said.

“Thinking of my future I had to be open to other clubs and the Gold Coast Titans presented a great opportunity.

“They have a solid and stable team both on and off the field and I am looking forward to joining the club, but at the same time I am saddened it had to end like this with the Eels and I am truly sorry for disappointing all the Parramatta fans, players and club that have been with me from the start.

“This has been a difficult decision for me and I am as devastated as any fan that I won’t be putting on the blue and gold jersey this year.

“I now have a new challenge ahead of me and am excited about getting back on the field and playing some footy.”

Titans CEO Graham Annesley confirmed the former NFL player would be available for Sunday’s Round 22 match against the Warriors.

As Hayne is not a registered NRL player, the June 30 deadline does not apply to him.