The Melbourne Storm will clear Nelson Asofa-Solomona's salary from its cap after the powerful front-rower was granted a release from the final two years of his contract.

The Storm approved Asofa-Solomona's request to leave the club, allowing the 29-year-old to "consider other opportunities".

The New Zealand international has been linked to a move to breakaway rugby union competition R360, and would also be expected to command interest from other NRL clubs.

One of the Storm's longest-serving players, Asofa-Solomona has been a cornerstone of the club's pack since his debut in 2015.

But he has been suspended for the past two grand finals, with the Storm desperately missing his size and power in losses to Penrith and Brisbane.

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