Castleford Tigers: Jesse Sene-Lefao
The big forward only signed his deal to join from NRL side Cronulla this week: but it is obvious how much of a lift he will give Daryl Powell’s side in 2017. With huge experience behind him, he is bound to be a top-level signing for Castleford as they look to push on for the top four next season. Can they do it?
Catalans Dragons: Greg Bird
The Dragons undergoing somewhat of an overhaul this off-season, but of all the signings they’ve made so far, none has caught the eye more than the re-signing of Greg Bird. Bringing back the man who spent a solitary season with the Dragons in 2009 seems a shrewd move; his experience, power and expertise will help rebuild a new-look Catalans pack in 2017.
Huddersfield Giants: Tom Symonds
The Giants haven’t actually made any new signings since the season finished – but their signature of Tom Symonds mid-season for the next few years certainly ranks as one of their better pieces of business in 2016.
Hull FC: Josh Griffin
Having played a pivotal role in sending cross-city rivals Hull KR down to the Championship, Hull FC fans may already have taken to Josh Griffin before he’s even touched a ball in a Hull shirt. The centre arrives at the KCOM Stadium looking to take his career to the next level, having spent the last few years with Salford. He has had a great last couple of years – and in a Hull team with plenty of potential, there’s no reason why he can’t kick on further.
Leigh Centurions: Glenn Stewart
The experience Leigh have signed in helping them adapt to life as a Super League club will be crucial – and the signature of Glenn Stewart ranks right near the top of that list. Stewart arrives having spent one year in France with Catalans, and if he performs how he did in a Leigh shirt like he did during his time in Perpignan, the Centurions will have a mighty fine player on their hands.
Leeds Rhinos: Jack Ormondroyd
The only signing the Rhinos have made since the Super League season finished is Featherstone’s Jack Ormondroyd: but he looks a real prospect for the future. Ormondroyd joins from Featherstone, and having impressed during his time in the Championship as a part-time player, the step up to full-time could really see his career kick on.
Part two, from Salford to Wigan, coming up on Friday..
