Perth Bears general manager Gareth Holmes says the club remains active in the player market after securing Niwhai Puru and Jack Cole on multi-year contracts.
Puru will join Perth in 2027 on a two-year deal, adding to the club's developing halves group alongside Tyran Wishart, Toby Sexton, Cole and Apa Twidle.
The 24-year-old Penrith Panthers junior has appeared in three first-grade matches for Cronulla this season since debuting in Round 13.
He also represented the Indigenous All Stars in the 2025 NRL All Star Game as a Mununjali and Githabal man.
"This is an incredible opportunity to be a part of history and continue my career with the Perth Bears," Puru said.
"This decision is bigger than football. It's about creating something new with this team and for my family. I'm extremely proud and look forward to running out in front of the people of WA next year."
Coach Mal Meninga believes Puru can become an important member of Perth's inaugural squad.
"Niwhai is another young player who has had a taste of First Grade, and I believe has the potential to really make an impact in the NRL competition," Meninga said.
"He is a dynamic ball runner who has played in good systems throughout his career."
Meninga will welcome Puru and his family to Western Australia on November 1.
Holmes said Puru had "the skillset to make an immediate impact" and expected more announcements in the coming weeks.