A dramatic day for NRL premiers South Sydney has continued with the announcement that forward Luke Burgess will head to Manly for the next two seasons.

Burgess, who played 18 matches in the red and green as the Rabbitohs broke a 43-year premiership drought in 2014, has been granted an early release from the final year of his contract.

“I’ve had a wonderful time at South Sydney and I’d like to thank them for the wonderful memories over the years,” Burgess said.

“I really appreciate them granting me this release.

“I’m really looking forward to the next few seasons at the Sea Eagles and can’t wait to get stuck in with the boys.”

It’s the second huge blow for Souths in just a few hours, with the announcement earlier on Wednesday that chief executive Shane Richardson is leaving the club to take up a position at the NRL.

And it comes on the heels of Luke’s older brother Sam leaving the club at the end of 2014 to play rugby union in England.

Two other Burgess brothers, twins Tom and George, remain at Souths.