BY SCOTT DILLON AND KANE AUSTIN

One of the biggest names in rugby league could be about to become a free agent with Shaun Johnson reportedly requesting an immediate release from his contract at the New Zealand Warriors.

The relationship between the club and Johnson has been strained since officials told Johnson he was allowed to test his worth on the open market once his contract expired at the end of 2019.

Johnson now wants out of the Auckland orginisation immediately according to nzherald.co.nz with the former Golden Boot winner requesting his release on Tuesday.

A meeting between Johnson, coach Stephen Kearney and CEO Cameron George reportedly occurred Tuesday morning.

He has not been granted his release yet with the likes of Cronulla and Canberra circling.

The club has been adamant there is still a place for Johnson at the Warriors post-2019 but it would mean Johnson would have to sign for less than money than he is currently on.