The Bulls have taken their number of off-season recruits into double figures after today completing a deal for half-back Marc Herbert.

The 23-year-old Aussie, recently released by Canberra Raiders, has signed up for a one-year stay at Odsal and appears to be the natural successor to Matt Orford’s No 7 jersey.

Although the club have yet to finalise Orford’s departure, it was confirmed earlier this week the veteran playmaker had requested a release – albeit one dependant on interested clubs buying the former Dally M Medal-winner out of the final two years of his contract.

Herbert is set to take the departing star’s overseas quota spot for the coming season and is expected to link up with his new team-mates for pre-season training late next month.

“I am really excited to be joining the Bulls,” said Herbert, who is the club’s tenth new signing for 2011.

“Super League will be a different experience for me and I intend to make the most of the opportunity.

“Having spoken to Mick Potter, I am really looking forward to getting across and into pre-season training.”

Despite starting 2010 as the Raiders’ first-choice scrum half, Herbert lost his place to Josh McCrone and struggled with an ankle injury throughout much of the campaign, while featuring for Queensland Cup high-flyers Souths Logan.

Upon his release, he was initially rumoured to be a target for Melbourne Storm as a replacement for Wigan-bound Brett Finch but has instead decided to leave the NRL after making 23 first-grade appearances since his debut in 2007.

The Bulls are also thought to have seen off competition from Hull FC and another Super League club to sign Herbert.

Bradford coach Mick Potter said: “Marc is a player I have been aware of for some time. I am sure he will make a very good Super League player and he brings a lot of qualities to the side.

“I have spoken to him at length and outlined what I want him to do for the club. I have every confidence that he will be a big success in the role I see for him and I know he is really looking forward to joining the Bulls.”