Toronto sign Jake Bulter-Fleming from York

Drew Darbyshire

Toronto Wolfpack have signed outside-back Jake Butler-Fleming from York City Knights for an undisclosed fee.

The 26-year-old, who can play at centre or on the wing, was at Hull Kingston Rovers in 2017, scoring five tries in nine games, before signing for York in the off-season on a free transfer.

Butler-Fleming played for the Knights last season on dual-registration from the Robins and even featured in their win over the Wolfpack in 2017.

Paul Rowley, Wolfpack head coach, said: “We have been monitoring Jake’s progress following his great performance against the Wolfpack earlier in the year and I’d like to thank Jon Flatman and York for reaching an agreement as to the transfer fee.

“From speaking to Jake I know he was really keen to return to full-time playing in the Championship, with a chance for promotion back to the Super League.”

Knights chairman, Jon Flatman, said: “York City Knights were informed on Tuesday lunchtime of Toronto’s interest in Jake Butler-Fleming. When an under contract player wants to return to a full time environment, one which we at this stage are unable to offer, we must ensure that the agreement returns benefits to our club for that loss of player.

“As we progress as a club, we will receive approaches for more players and we will make the decisions based on the benefits to the on and off field strategic objectives of the club. The recruitment process occurs as an ongoing process and we will strengthen this squad of excellent players as and when the opportunities arise with funds from the transfer fee.

“James Ford and I are committed to delivering a team capable of promotion and this transfer is, in our opinion, the best interest of all parties.”