Hull FC announce second signing for 2024 in shape of NRL utility

Hull FC have signed utility player Jayden Okunbor on a two-year deal from NRL side Canterbury Bulldogs from 2024.

The 26-year-old becomes Hull’s second overseas signing ahead of the new season alongside Dolphins prop Herman Ese’ese, who has signed a three-year deal from next season.

Okunbor, who is able to play back-row, centre and wing, has scored 15 tries in 43 appearances for the Bulldogs since making his NRL debut in 2019.

On signing Okunbor, Hull coach Tony Smith said: “We’re really happy to get ourselves a player who is of a good age and at a strong position in his career.

“Having spoken to Jayden, I can understand his determination to progress as a rugby league player and he wants to establish himself as a formidable back-rower.

“I think the attributes Jayden has and the style of play we have here make him a good fit for us.

“We’ve had some good discussions about how we can use him in the pack and I’m looking forward to welcoming him on board.

“He has a big frame with good speed and a good offload game, so I think he has all of the attributes to develop well here.”

Okunbor added: “I’m super excited. It’s always been a bit of a dream of mine to play Super League, so to be coming to play for a great club like Hull FC is really exciting for me.

“Hull FC is one of the biggest clubs when it comes down to rugby league, so it’s a super exciting opportunity for me.”

Hull FC recruitment update

The Black and Whites have already confirmed the signing of former New Zealand and Samoa international Ese’ese from the Dolphins on a three-year deal from the 2024 season.

Hull had previously been linked with out-of-favour Wests Tigers Shawn Blore and Papua New Guinea international Jacob Alick, but have signed their back-rower in Okunbor.

Hull Live have also reported that Franklin Pele is set to make the move from Canterbury Bulldogs on a two-year contract.

Meanwhile, there are a handful of players still off-contract at the MKM Stadium.

Hookers Danny Houghton and Joe Lovodua, playmaker Ben McNamara and full-back Jamie Shaul all remain without deals beyond the current campaign.

Scott Taylor, 32, is also in the final few months of his contract, while there is an option for 2024 for Mitieli Vulikijapani.

Brad Dwyer is expected to return to former club Warrington for 2024, while the club have confirmed exits for Andre Savelio and Adam Swift, with the pair linked with Ian Watson’s Huddersfield.

Forward Chris Satae will also head to France next year and join Catalans on a two-year contract.

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