Hull KR recruit prop Albert Vete from Melbourne Storm

The 27-year-old, who has made two appearances for Tonga, played six times for the Storm on their way to the 2020 NRL Premiership title. He is the Robins’ first signing for 2022 and is subject to receiving a visa.

“It’s a great acquisition for us,” said Rovers coach Tony Smith. “He’s the right age, right size and at the right stage of his career.

“He’s got some go forward and he’s got lots of rugby left in him so he’ll have a really good impact for us in the future.

“He’s a really nice young man, who’s come through a really good programme at Melbourne Storm.

“Coming from the current NRL champions he comes with good pedigree and a good understanding of what it takes to be successful.

“He’s able to bring some of those experiences to us, and to our young people to help them along the way, whilst leading from the front.”

Vete said: “At first, I was hesitant to move all the way to England to play footy but, once I talked to a few people, they convinced me it’s the right move for me at the age I’m at.

“I want to keep playing footy and to keep growing. I’m only 27 so I know I’ve still got a lot of footy in me, I’m very keen to get over to England and learn.”