Castleford have finally won the battle to sign back-row forward Willie Manu. The newly-promoted Super League club announced the Tongan's signing in November last year following his release from St George Illawarra.
However the deal hit a snag when he was reportedly subject of a late bid from Canberra Raiders.
"It seems that there was some interest from other clubs but we were always confident that Willie would be joining us," said spokesman David Smart.
Manu is due to appear in court in Wollongong on 6 February to face charges of assault causing actual bodily harm after he and two other men allegedly punched and kicked a nightclub owner last May.
Castleford's opening Super League game is against Hull four days later.
Manu is expected to train with his new team-mates this Saturday and could be included in the squad for Sunday's derby with Wakefield at The Jungle.
He was released from the final year of his St George contract after he breached bail conditions and was arrested for driving an unregistered vehicle while disqualified last summer.
Castleford are also locked in conflict with West Tigers over centre Ryan McGoldrick.
The former Cronulla star signed a one-year contract with Castleford last month but had earlier agreed to join champions Wests Tigers and is currently in talks with them about securing a release.
MMIX
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