ComeOnYouUll wrote:
Fairly confident that Pele is joining us. Similar reason why I was confident Clifford was coming although I get the confusion with NRL experience / appearances.
Could be right on that oneExclusive: Hull FC are closing in on the capture of Canterbury Bulldogs front-rower Franklin Pele.
According to sources in Australia, rugbyleaguehub.com Long Reads understands Pele will be joining the Super League side in 2024.
Bulldogs boss Phil Gould denied the link with the prop back in May.
But it is believed he will arrive at the Black & Whites on two-year deal next season, with a release clause allowing him to return to the NRL.
Born in New Zealand but raised in Australia, after moving to Sydney at the age of seven, Pele played for the Australian Schoolboys and came through the ranks at Cronulla.
He debuted in the NRL in 2021 before signing with Canterbury for the 2022 campaign.
At 190cm and weighing in at 132 kilograms, the 22-year-old has only made six NRL appearances for the Dogs this year after fracturing a forearm in April.
Pele is averaging five hit-ups and 65 running metres per NRL game. The forward has spent some of this season playing in the NSW Cup.
Hull FC have been approached for comment.
The Black & Whites are set to bring in a new halfback and hooker for 2024, replacing Jake Clifford and Brad Dwyer, as well as a new second-rower.