The 22-year-old was one of the bright spots of a dismal 2017-18 season. Ridenton played 26 games, which was more than any other player and was one of the first picked every week.
Ridenton made his Phoenix debut as an 18-year-old against Perth in December 2013.
He was an intermittent member of the team after that, but at the start of last year began to come into his own, and carried that form into the most recent campaign.
He appeals as the kind of player – and home grown talent – that you can build a team around, especially with the A League finally recognizing international windows next season.
It's believed the Phoenix did offer Ridenton a new contract, but weren't able to come to an agreement, with a significant disparity in the expectations of both parties.
Once those negotiations broke down, other A League clubs came into the reckoning, and the Jets have managed to land Ridenton.
Ridenton, who is the son of former All White Michael, made his international debut under Neil Emblen in 2014.
He won two further caps under Anthony Hudson in 2016.
Ridenton was also part of Fritz Schmid's first squad, for the recent match with Canada in Spain.
Ridenton has played 76 games for the Phoenix, accumulating four goals and five assists across that time.
Ridenton's looming departure follows Michael McGLinchey's exit last week.
A further 10 players remain off contract at the Wellington club, who have also yet to appoint their coach for next season.
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