Bradford Bulls secure impressive signing of Leeds Rhinos and England Knights fullback Jack Walker

Bradford Bulls have confirmed the signing of Jack Walker from Leeds Rhinos on a one-year deal.

The 23-year-old, who has played 80 games for the Rhinos since his debut in 2017, arrives at Odsal following a loan stint with Hull FC.

At the age of just 18, Walker appeared in the 2017 Super League Grand Final as he helped Leeds beat the Castleford Tigers at Old Trafford.

His rapid rise to stardom has been cruelly halted by a number of serious injuries in recent seasons, with the fullback falling down the pecking order at Headingley.

This led to Walker’s loan switch to Hull in July and after much speculation about where he will be in 2023, it has now been confirmed he’ll link up with Leeds’ West Yorkshire rivals Bradford in the Championship.

Speaking on the signing, Bradford Head coach Mark Dunning said: “I am really delighted, it is a deal we have been trying to do for a few months, we identified Jack a long time ago he knew he would add to our group so I am delighted we have got the deal done.

“He will bring experience, quality and a real calmness. The biggest thing I can say is he is 100% fully committed and really excited to get into pre-season and meet the boys and the energy his signing will bring will lift the group.

“It is a good sign that the club can attract a player of Jack’s calibre. I’ve had a number of meetings with Jack and he is excited by the project here, he has 100% bought into what we are trying to do.”

Jack Walker, added: “In the past, I’ve been on the opposite end of the Bradford fans, so it will be good to have them cheering my name and I want to give my all for this club, it’s a proud moment for me.

“If I was to give a message to the fans, it would be that I can’t wait to get going and playing in front of the fans, they’re some of the best around and I want to help in putting a smile on their faces and getting the club back into Super League, where this club belongs.”