LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
The Perth Bears have reportedly secured their first major signing for the 2027 season, landing English international Harry Newman.
Earlier reports indicated that Papua New Guinean player Judah Rimbu had signed a train-and-trial deal with the newly established NRL team. However, it is understood that Newman will be the Bears' first Top 30 player.
According to News Corp, Newman will complete the 2026 season in the English Super League before relocating to Australia to pursue his NRL ambitions.
As a member of the English squad for the recent Ashes series, Newman participated in the third Test. He is capable of playing both centre and wing, boasting nearly 150 matches of experience in the UK's top two leagues with the Leeds Rhinos and Featherstone Rovers, where he spent time on loan in 2018 and 2019.
Newman stands 184 centimeters tall and has recorded 46 tries in 129 games for Leeds, along with one try in four international matches for England to date.
At 25 years old, Newman is entering his prime and has reportedly signed a three-year contract covering 2027, 2028, and 2029, which will allow him to fully commit to succeeding in the NRL.
He is not the first English outside back to attempt a career in the NRL recently, as Dominic Young has previously impressed during his time with the Newcastle Knights and Sydney Roosters.