The Bulls are thought to be closing in on a shock deal for controversial Australian Test star Greg Bird.

Cronulla Sharks today announced they had released the fiery stand-off from his $1.4million four-year contract but he cannot sign for another NRL club in 2009.

The State of Origin ace, whose career has been on hold since he was arrested for an alleged assault on American girlfriend Katie Milligan last August, is now set to start again in England.

It is understood Bradford have beaten off bids from Wigan Warriors and Huddersfield Giants to capture the talented 24-year-old, who can also play loose forward.

Bird is due in court on April 27 on charges of reckless wounding, assault occasioning actual bodily harm and lying to police.

He has always maintained his innocence and Milligan has stood by him throughout the ordeal.

In the meantime, the New South Wales star hopes to secure a visa to allow his move to Super League.

No one was available for comment at Odsal this afternoon.