Hull FC swoop for forward Lauaki

Lauaki played three Tests for the Tongan national side in 2008

New Zealand and Tongan Test forward Epalahame Lauaki has joined Hull FC on a three-year contract.

The 25-year-old New Zealand Warrior's arrival at the KC Stadium is subject to being granted an entry visa to the United Kingdom.

Lauaki said: "This is a new challenge and I am really excited by the move. I have always wanted the opportunity to play football in the Super League."

Head coach Richard Agar said: "He will add another dimension to our pack."

Lauaki, who scored 10 tries in 69 appearances in four years with the Warriors, is not seen as a replacement for Australian Test star Michael Crocker, who is appealing against a decision to refuse him a visa.

He will instead replace Adam Dykes, who returned to Australia after an injury-ravaged 2008 season.

606: DEBATE

Will Lauaki be a good signing for Hull FC?

He added: "Playing in the UK is something I have always wanted to do but I didn't want to come at the end of my career.

"I wanted to come while I still had plenty of football in front of me. When Hull came in for me it presented me with the perfect opportunity to come."

Lauaki said he had spoken to Tongan and now Hull team-mate Willie Manu about the move: "He said it was a good club and everything about the place was good. That helped make my mind up and now I can't wait to come."

Agar added: "He is an explosive and aggressive player and he will also add more size up front. Hame also has the ability to play a variety of roles and at his age he has his best football in front of him."