Salford Red Devils have won the race to sign half-back Jackson Hastings, who joins the club for the remainder of the season.
The 22-year-old joins after spells with Sydney Roosters and Manly Sea Eagles, having made a total of 47 appearances in the NRL.
There had been previous interest from Huddersfield Giants, but Salford have swooped to land Hastings after he was released by Manly.
He is awaiting visa clearance but will link up for the Red Devils, who lie second from bottom in the Super League table, for the vital run-in and they likely battle for their top flight status in the Qualifiers.
Head coach Ian Watson said that he was “delighted” to have secured Hastings, and believing that he will fill a crucial hole in their side.
“Obviously there were numerous Super League clubs chasing him and we are delighted he has chosen to come to us. Hopefully together we can restart Jackson’s first grade career.
“He has been the guy we have been missing in terms of organisation and kicking game. He’s looking forward to getting over here and getting stuck in.”
Salford’s Director of Rugby Ian Blease said: “Jackson is a signing that should rightly excite everybody in the city. He is an exciting match-winner and will slot into our set-up perfectly at this crucial time.
“A huge amount of hard-work behind the scenes has gone into making this happen over the past few months and we are delighted to get it over the line.
“Opportunities to sign players this talented do not come along too often and it speaks volumes that we have beaten off some serious competition for his signature.”
He also revealed that a familiar face had a hand in securing the deal.
“I’d like to thank the player’s agent for all his help as well as Marwan Koukash who has honoured his pledge to support the club with the acquisition of a player.”
