Leeds swoop for Paul Aiton

Leeds have signed Papua New Guinea hooker Paul Aiton from Wakefield for an undisclosed fee.

Aiton, 28, moves to Headingley on a three-year deal having spent the past two seasons with the Wildcats.

Head Coach Brian McDermott said: “I am delighted that we have agreed the deal to bring Paul to Headingley Carnegie.

“He has a wealth of experience both from the NRL and here in Super League with Wakefield and is performing on the highest stage as captain of his country in the World Cup.”

Aiton is set to play at Headingley on Friday, as PNG round off their World Cup campaign with their final Group B match against New Zealand.

He said: “I am very happy to be joining the Rhinos.

“I would like to thank everyone connected with Wakefield for making me feel so welcome over the last two years and I am pleased that both clubs have come to an agreement that means I can join Leeds. 

“It is nice that we have been able to get the deal done ahead of Friday’s game against the Kiwis.

“I hope the Leeds fans will be out in force on Friday night and they will give me and the Papua New Guinea boys all their support as we know we face a big challenge against New Zealand.”

Aiton previously played in the NRL for Penrith and Cronulla, before moving to Super League ahead of the 2012 season.