Chris Nero is ready to join the Bulls from derby rivals Huddersfield Giants.

The Australian centre revealed today he won't be taking up the Giants' contract offer and will quit the Galpharm Stadium at the end of the season.

Speculation has been rife that Bulls boss Steve McNamara has already bagged Nero as a direct replacement for Chris McKenna next year.

The hard-running former St George's ace is equally effective at second row and should enhance the Bulls squad.

Nero, 26, has been a mainstay of the Giants side for the last four years, enjoying a decent try-scoring record, boasting excellent defensive attributes and starring in their Challenge Cup final appearance last season.

Huddersfield also confirmed yesterday that star scrum half Brad Drew will also depart - Wakefield are believed to be his next port of call - along with long-serving full back Paul Reilly.

Giants managing director Richard Thewlis said: "Such has been the media speculation surrounding our players that we felt it appropriate to formalise this news now rather than at the season's end so that we can all keep our focus on making the top six.

"Over the years each of the players have made a significant contribution to the development of the Huddersfield Giants."

Nero said: "My choice not to re-sign was a difficult one as I feel the club is getting stronger every year and will be pushing for honours next season.

"Everyone here has also made me and my family feel at home so it was hard but I just felt it was time for something different."