Friday 29 August 2014 12:39, UK
Wakefield coach James Webster has returned to Perpignan to make Lopini Paea his latest signing for 2015.
The 30-year-old Tonga prop is to follow his Catalan Dragons team-mate Mickael Simon in swapping the south of France for West Yorkshire after signing a 12-month contract with the Wildcats.
Paea, whose brother Mickey plays for Hull FC, has made 76 Super League appearances since joining the French club from Sydney Roosters in 2011.
"He's an experienced player and been a pivotal part of what is a very big and aggressive pack at Catalans," said Webster. "We're extremely happy to have him with us for next year."
The 16st 3lb Paea, who captained Tonga in the 2008 World Cup, is Wakefield's fourth addition to their squad for 2015 following the acquisition of Simon, Craig Hall and Matty Ashurst as Webster prepares for his first full season in charge.
"It's a new challenge for me, a new lifestyle and I feel like a big kid starting all over again," said Paea.
"I'm really looking forward to coming to Wakefield and recapturing some of my best form again. I've been really impressed with the way the team have been playing for each other since James Webster has taken over and as a player that's something you want to be part of.
"I've spoken to him a couple of times and I was really impressed with what he had to say."
