Manly has released centre David Vaealiki from his 2008 NRL contract to take up a two-year offer to play rugby union in France.

The former Kiwi Test centre arrived at the club in the preseason desperate to relaunch his NRL career but has played just two games for the Sea Eagles.

Vaealiki received an offer from France in recent weeks and Sea Eagles chief executive Grant Mayer said it would be unfair for the club to deny his request to leave.

"David has only been with us a short time but he has impressed everyone with his attitude and he was unable to show us his best because of injury," said Mayer.

"He goes with our best wishes. He has a young family and this deal will be a benefit financially for him."

Vaealiki said he was leaving Manly reluctantly.

"I have enjoyed my time here with a great bunch of team-mates and a professionally run organisation," he said.

"Injuries in the preseason and in the early rounds of the premiership haven't helped but I now realise that the chance to play rugby in France is the best option for me and my family."

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