‘We just had to sign him’: Bulldogs continue signing spree with Josh Curran joining club on new two-year deal

The Bulldogs have continued their retention and recruitment drive with Josh Curran joining the club on a two-year deal after the Warriors granted him a release with 12 months to run on his contract.

The edge forward joined the Warriors midway through the 2019 season and played 60 games for the club, including this year’s finals series.

“We recently advised Josh that it was unlikely we would be able to re-sign him beyond next year,” Warriors chief executive Cameron George.

“We told him we were happy for him to see out his contract, but if he did find an option that provided him with longer-term security to please come back and talk to us.

“We’re pleased for him that he has found a new club and he leaves with our best wishes. We really appreciate the contribution Josh has made in his five seasons with us.”

Curran flew to Sydney on Thursday morning, met Bulldogs officials and signed his two-year deal, with training expected to begin next month.

The 24-year-old is the latest addition to the Canterbury side for 2024, with Stephen Crichton, Blake Taaffe, Bronson Xerri and Jaeman Salmon all heading to Belmore, while outside backs Jacob Kiraz and Blake Wilson have both signed extensions.

The next 12 months are vital for the Bulldogs after they won just seven games and finished down in 15th in Cameron Ciraldo’s first season in charge.

“From the first time I saw Josh Curran play, he looked like a Bulldog to me,” Bulldogs general manager of football Phil Gould said.

“Once he became available, we just had to sign him up. At 24 years of age, his best football is clearly in front of him. We are very excited to have Josh in our club.”