Paris-born Baitieri in French return

Catalans have signed French-born loose forward Jason Baitieri on a two-year deal.

Baitieri, 21, played junior rugby league in Toulouse before moving to Australia when he was eight, going on to play for the Australian Schoolboys.

He made his NRL debut for Sydney Roosters against Wests Tigers this season, and becomes new Dragons boss Trent Robinson’s third signing, following the captures of Scott Dureau and Ian Henderson.

Baitieri said: “I’m very happy to be with the Dragons for the next two years and am looking forward to a fresh start.”

Baitieri’s father, Tas, was the chief executive of the first French Super League club, Paris St Germain, and has also coached the French national team.

During his playing days, Tas spent eight seasons with Penrith Panthers and three seasons with Canterbury Bulldogs, before marrying a French woman and moving to Europe.