Cronulla Sharks have agreed to release Josh Morris to join Sydney Roosters after round two of the NRL season.

Morris, 33, had requested a release from the final year of his contract with the Sharks to join brother Brett at the Roosters.

The New South Wales representative and former Australia international will join the Roosters, but only after the Sharks face Melbourne Storm in round two.

"After much internal discussion and following lengthy negotiations with the Sydney Roosters, the release request has been granted ultimately due to circumstances surrounding the Sharks' salary cap, a situation which has been impacted by previous infringements," a statement from Cronulla said on Wednesday.

"Prior to coming to the decision to release Morris, the Sharks explored a myriad of options to ensure they remained salary cap compliant, with the NRL's suspended $500,000 fine from past breaches the determining factor in the decision.

The Sharks have released the following statement regarding the playing future of Josh Morris#UpUp

— Cronulla Sharks (@Cronulla_Sharks) March 10, 2020

"Sharks coach John Morris reiterated his desire to keep Josh Morris at the Cronulla club, as communicated in previous media statements, however he is understanding of the club's position and has agreed to the release request."

The Sharks will be paid a transfer fee, while they are trying to sign Poasa Faamausili from the Roosters.

Cronulla begin their NRL season against South Sydney Rabbitohs on Saturday, while they are due to face the Roosters on April 11.