It may have taken several months but the Bulls have finally got their man, prising emerging star Ben Harris from the clutches of NRL champions Canterbury Bulldogs.

The 21-year-old centre, who played in the Bulldogs' 2004 Grand Final victory over Sydney Roosters but missed the World Club Challenge defeat by Leeds Rhinos through injury, has signed a two-and-a-half year deal and is an outside chance to debut against Salford on Friday night.

Harris was released by the Bulldogs on compassionate grounds - as his girlfriend wanted to live closer to her home country of Portugal - much to the displeasure of 'Dogs coach Steve Folkes.

"It's really disappointing. The less said about it the better," said Folkes.

However, after missing out on Vinnie Anderson and Gareth Ellis in recent months, Bulls chairman Chris Caisley was delighted by the capture of such a highly-rated young talent.

"He's a great young player," said Caisley.

"I am absolutely delighted that we have missed out on one or two recently because this kid is very, very exciting.

"I don't think I've spoken to a player for a long time who has been as committed and determined to make a career for himself at the Bulls. He wants to come here and give it a real go. From day one he has been absolutely committed to trying to get over here. His attitude has been terrific."

With Australian full back Mick Withers coming off quota after qualifying for British residency, the Bulls have been chasing Harris for the last six weeks.

A product of the Bulldogs production line that has churned out international stars such as Sonny Bill Williams, Willie Mason and Willie Tonga, Harris made 42 appearances for the Australian champions, scoring 16 tries since making his first grade debut as an 18-year-old in 2002.

With the Bulldogs noted for their hard-nosed, abrasive approach to the game, Harris will be expected to add some much-needed steel to the Bulls' shaky defence.

"They produce tough players at Canterbury," said Caisley. "They don't produce softies. He is the type of player that we now want to ensure we recruit. He fits the bill in terms of having a real determination to succeed and having come though a real tough school."

After being troubled by injuries in 2004 Harris underwent an off-season shoulder reconstruction but is now fully fit and, pending the granting of a work permit, could be available to face Salford on Friday night.