Dean Widders is set to become the latest NRL star to head overseas with the South Sydney forward released from the final year of his Rabbitohs deal to link with Castleford.

Widders will see out 2008 with the Souths before starting a three-year contract with the UK Super League club next season.

"Dean is one of the games true gentlemen, a hard-working community hero and a fine footballer," Rabbitohs chief executive Shane Richardson said.

"We wish him the best of luck at Castleford.

Widders has played 159 NRL games throughout his career including 34 for the Rabbitohs since joining the club from Parramatta in 2007.

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