Sam Obst is set to become the latest high-profile star to join Keighley Cougars after player-coach Jason Demetriou made a stunning swoop for his former Wakefield team-mate.

Obst, 30, was a free agent following his recent departure from Hull FC and had been linked with a return to the Wildcats, where he enjoyed a long spell in Super League between 2005 and 2010.

The diminutive half-back or hooker spent last season with Hull but left at the end of the campaign, halfway through his two-year deal.

Obst was told he was surplus to requirements at the KC Stadium and has been weighing up his options but is set to accept an offer today to join the newly-promoted Cougars on a one-year deal.

Demetriou’s men enjoyed an outstanding campaign in 2011, winning promotion back to the Co-operative Championship at the first attempt.

That has led to the Keighley chief signing a raft of former top-flight players such as Michael Korkidas, Richie Barnett and Paul March.

Obst, whose father played at Cougar Park during the 1970s, is due to become the next big capture and will be the third former Wakefield team-mate to join Demetriou at Lawkholme Lane after March and Korkidas.

And the boss beamed: “Obviously I am over the moon that Sam’s set to join us.

“He will add real quality to an already strong-looking team and he will have a huge impact off the field with our young players.

“His signing will also create some genuine optimism on the terraces.

“Sam’s dad played for Keighley back in the 1970s and was well respected by all and I am sure Sam will more than follow in his father’s footsteps.”

Meanwhile, Cougars are extending their offer on season tickets until Christmas Eve.

Demetriou said: “We are on around 300 and if we get to 400 total cost will only be £100.

“Even better still, if we get to 600 total cost will be £80.

“If everyone who has bought a season ticket can convince one more person then we will hit 600, which would be fantastic for the club and a real statement to everyone in rugby league the Cougars are back.

“I’m really happy with the squad I’m putting together and bringing Sam to the club is another massive statement of intent.

“Now we need the fans to turn out in force next season.”