SUPER League semi-finalists Leeds have signed Gold Coast Titans prop Nathaniel Peteru on a three-year contract from 2018.

Auckland-born Peteru, who is 6ft 5in and weighs nearly 18 stone, joined the Titans from New Zealand Warriors three years ago and has made 15 NRL appearances this season.

Leeds coach Brian McDermott said: "Nathaniel is someone we have been keeping an eye on for a while and the opportunity arose to bring him over for next season.

"He is an impressive individual who spoke passionately to us about his commitment to the Rhinos and what he wants to achieve in his own game and with the Rhinos."

Peteru, who hopes to play for Samoa in the end-of-season World Cup, spoke to his boyhood hero and former Leeds favourite Kylie Leuluai, who now works for the club as player welfare officer, before committing himself to the move.

He said: "I have known Kylie Leuluai for a number of years. I watched him when I was growing up in New Zealand and followed his career when he was at Leeds.

"Talking to him put my mind at ease when I was looking to come over for a new challenge.

"I want to come to England and take my game to the next level. I believe I can do that with Leeds with a successful team and a successful coach."

Peteru, 25, is the Rhinos' third recruit for 2018 following the signing of Warrington hooker Brad Dwyer and Catalans Dragons scrum-half Richie Myler.