Catalans Dragons have signed prop forward Luke Burgess on a two-year contract from the start of the 2017 season.
Burgess, who joined Salford Red Devils during 2016 from NRL club Manly Sea Eagles, was the inaugural winner of the Albert Goldthorpe Rookie of the Year Medal in 2008, when he played for Leeds Rhinos. He is the older brother of England captain Sam.
On signing with the Dragons, Burgess said: “I am delighted to have signed for the Catalans Dragons and to be returning to play in the European Super League. The club has a very talented playing squad and for much of last season looked to be on course for at least a top 4 place in the Super League, at the same time playing a very attractive brand of rugby league football. I am very excited at the prospect of doing what I can over the next 2 seasons to bring success to the club and their supporters.”
Burgess, 29, made 80 appearances for Leeds Rhinos and won two Super League titles and a World Club Challenge before heading Down Under, joining the South Sydney Rabbitohs.
He made over 50 appearances for the Rabbitohs and won the Premiership in 2014 before moving to Manly.
He came back to Super League for the start of the Super8’s last season to join the Red Devils.
Catalans Dragons Head coach Laurent Frayssinous said: “Luke will bring top level Super League and NRL experience to our squad next season. He will add size and will strengthen our pack, offensively and defensively. He loves France and has the perfect pedigree, on and off the field.”
