BULLS have announced the signing of former NRL hooker James Segeyaro.

The club beat off competition for the 32-year-old, who has joined on a deal until the end of the season.

The former Papua New Guinea star has most recently been playing in France for Lezignan.

He made his senior debut in the NRL for North Queensland Cowboys in 2011 before four years with Penrith Panthers.

Segeyaro also featured 10 times for Leeds Rhinos in 2016 before moving back to Australia to represent Cronulla Sharks, Brisbane Broncos and Manly Sea Eagles.

“I'm excited to be a part of this team and to have the honour of representing you on the field this season,” he said.

“I know that this team has a rich history of success, and I'm committed to doing everything I can to help us win.

I won't make any big promises, but I will give you my word that I'm going to work hard every day to improve my game, contribute to the team's success and earn your trust.”

Bulls CEO Jason Hirst admitted the club had worked hard to sort out the red tape surrounding Segeyaro’s visa.

He said: “We have signed James despite fierce competition from other clubs and to bring in a player of his undoubted pedigree, with over 150 NRL matches under his belt, from now until the end of the season, is testament to our on-field ambition.

“Having personally spoken to James at length, on numerous occasions, his desire to get to the UK and play for Bradford has consistently shone through.

“He is, without doubt, chomping at the bit to pull on our famous red, amber and black jersey.

“His signing gives us increased competition for places, on field impetus, further leadership and experience and real go forward from dummy half and bodes well for us achieving a top-four finish and a home fixture in the end of season play-off series.

“A special thanks goes to Squad Booster for their support in helping make this signing happen.”

The Bulls are also hoping to have new signing Jason Baitieri fit to be in contention next month.

Hirst added: “On the very day we received Jason’s visa clearance, he picked up an injury, which was obviously extremely bad luck for him and us.

“Having now had the injury assessed and commenced his rehabilitation, Jason and we remain hopeful that he’ll soon be back to full fitness, to enable him to join us in the near future.

“Given Jason’s undoubted determination, professionalism and desire to play for Bradford Bulls, we anticipate that being next month.”