Olivier Elima is ready to spearhead a Bulls revival in 2011 after completing his much-anticipated switch from Catalans Dragons.

The France captain today became the fifth new arrival in a hectic fortnight after putting pen to paper on a two-year deal.

Despite interest from other Super League clubs, the 27-year-old back-rower was quick to plump for Bradford, citing the club’s vast potential as a major factor in his decision.

He said: “I had talked with the Dragons and what they were saying was not what I wanted to hear, so when the Bulls offer came up it was pretty clear that I would go there because it is a very good club.

“They haven’t been where they should be over the last couple of years but with a new coach and some new players we will get back to where we want to be.

“I had three good years in Perpignan but I’ve always said that I would be happy to go back to England at some point. Bradford are a big club and I’m excited about the move.”

An influential figure for Catalans over the past three years, Elima scored 27 tries in 60 Super League appearances for the Perpignan club.

But he was keen to return to West Yorkshire, having started his professional career at Castleford before spending five successful years at Wakefield.

A fluent English speaker, he will crucially not count towards the Bulls’ overseas quota in 2011, new rules meaning French players will be classed as federation-trained.

And the switch will see Elima reunited with former coach Mick Potter, having worked with the incoming Bulls boss during Catalans’ most successful Super League campaign in 2008, when they finished third.

Elima said: “I’ve only worked with him for a year but I understand his plans and the way he coaches and I think he will do a great job so that’s one of the reasons I have signed.

“He can do a lot with good players, both collectively and as individuals. He brings the best out of players.”

Bulls chairman Peter Hood added: “We are delighted that Olivier has joined us for the next two seasons. He is an international player of renown who will greatly improve our pack, both in attack and defence.

“He is a strong runner and an uncompromising defender, attributes that we feel we need to compete at the highest level.”