Bulls owner Omar Khan last night hailed a major sponsorship deal with Bartercard that will secure the club’s future for “the next few years”.

Bartercard, the UK’s largest business-to-business trade exchange, will become an official partner in a tie-up that will give the Bulls a significant “six-figure sum” in each of the next three years.

The deal will see the Rooley Lane Terrace at Odsal renamed the Bartercard Terrace, while the new investors’ name will also feature on the first team’s home and away shirt.

Khan, who recently poured a huge sum of his personal fortune into the club, spoke of his delight at the deal as it was revealed fans will soon be able to buy shares in the Bulls and that further player signings would be announced for next year.

Khan said: “This is the biggest deal of its kind in Super League and it further secures the future of the club for the next few years.

“The investment I have made this week will keep the club secure moving forward and underlines our strong position.

“When we took over the club almost a year ago, we said we would be looking for significant investors and partners.

“I also promised that this would be a community club and shortly we will be releasing shares that the Bradford community and the Bulls supporters will be able to purchase.”

Deputy director Robbie Hunter-Paul added: “Bartercard has a strong record in supporting businesses across the UK and enabling them to thrive. We believe the company is an excellent fit for the Bradford Bulls.

“This agreement further enhances our sponsorship portfolio going forward and we are focussed on putting a team together for next year that will be in a position to compete with the best in the game. We have some exciting times ahead and there will be more signings to announce shortly.

“Season-tickets will be available in September and the fans will be able to purchase these knowing the club is in the strongest position for many years.”

Bartercard UK’s chief executive Simon Barker said: “Everyone at Bartercard wishes the Bulls the best of luck as they attempt to make the play-offs this season and look forward to continuing our support for the team throughout the season next year.”

Bartercard’s unique product is an alternative source of business finance aimed primarily at small and medium sized enterprises, and there are currently 35,000 Bartercard members across seven countries.

Bartercard transactions earn the seller credit to spend with any other trade exchange member, while the buyer owes goods or services of the same value to the exchange.

* Catalan Dragons forward Zeb Taia has lost his appeal against a three-match ban for a shoulder charge on St Helens half-back Gareth O’Brien. Dragons visit the Bulls on Sunday.