Paceman Rhys Evans joins Leeds Rhinos on season-long loan from Bradford Bulls

As part of the arrangement, “a couple” of Rhinos players will move the other way, with their identities set to be confirmed later this month.

Bridgend-born Evans can play wing, centre or full-back, all positions in which Rhinos had lacked experienced cover.

Evans, who will wear squad number 21 and trained with Rhinos today when the squad returned from their Christmas break, will take part in a warm-weather training camp in Spain which begins on Saturday.

The 27-year-old scored 37 tries in 94 Super League appearances for Warrington Wolves from 2010-2017 and worked there under current Rhinos coach Richard Agar.

He also had loan spells at Leigh Centurions, Swinton Lions and North Wales Crusaders before moving to Leigh in 2018.

He joined Bradford ahead of last season and touched down three times in 15 games.

Evans played for Wales in last year’s World Cup Nines.

Rhinos director of rugby Kevin Sinfield said: “We are pleased to have brought a player of Rhys’ undoubted experience to the Rhinos to bolster our squad.

“He can cover a number of positions in the outside-backs.

“Last season we were able to bring in James Donaldson during pre-season to increase our quality in depth and we hope Rhys will have a similar impact in 2020.”

Evans will be available when Rhinos play Bulls in a pre-season game at Emerald Headingley on Sunday, January 12.

John Kear, the Bradford coach, said: “Rhys had a release clause in his contract so he was entitled to move to a Super League club.

“By agreeing the loan proposition with Leeds he now has an opportunity to establish himself.

“As part of the agreement the Bulls will also get a couple of Leeds players, which will be announced later in the month.”

Kear added: “Rhys is a smashing lad, with a strong Super League pedigree.

“On a personal level I am pleased for him that he has this opportunity and the overall arrangement represents sound business for our club.”