BRADFORD BULLS have signed James Bentley on a three-year deal from 2027.
The 29-year-old back-rower will leave Warrington Wolves after just one season to return to the club he started his career with.
A product of the club’s pathway system, Bentley made his senior debut at the Bulls in 2016, aged just 18, then played 27 further times the following season.
Bentley has since enjoyed four-year spells at both St Helens, where he contributed to three Super League-winning campaigns, and hometown club Leeds Rhinos.
The Ireland international has made 18 appearances for the Wolves so far this season, having joined on a one-year contract.
“I am buzzing at the opportunity to come back to Bradford and get to play where it all started,” said Bentley.
“Now the club is back in Super league it makes it extra special, and I want to come back to win trophies and bring silverware back to Bradford.
“With where I am at in my career, when the opportunity to come back came around it was something I wanted to do.
“Hearing where they want to take the club, it really excites me and made me want to be a part of that.”
Bentley joins John Bateman and Cameron Scott in returning next year to the club where their careers began, while Bradford have also signed Sam Eseh.
“There are a lot of quality players coming back to the club and with the direction it’s going in, it is an exciting time,” added Bentley.
“I have learnt a lot in my career so my role will look a lot different. I will be coming back to be a leader and to teach some of the younger lads who are in the squad.
“I can’t wait to call Odsal home again and to get back out there playing for the Bradford fans.”