PERTH BEARS are closing in on their first two signings ahead of their admittance to the NRL in 2027.

But, both former Canterbury Bulldogs man Luke Smith and ex-North Queensland Cowboys player Marly Bitungane will head to the London Broncos in 2026 before linking up with their new side.

That’s according to News Corp which has reported that both Smith and Bitungane will form part of Jason Demetriou’s squad to partake in the Championship next season.

The Bears, meanwhile, have been able to negotiate with players off-contract at the end of 2026 from November 1.

22-year-old Smith made two appearances for the Bulldogs in 2025, but has played most of his career so far in the reserves side, making 21 appearances over the course of two seasons.

23-year-old Bitungane also made two appearances for the Cowboys during the 2025 NRL campaign, but has plied most of his trade at feeder club Northern Pride in the Queensland Cup, registering seven tries in 35 appearances.