BRADFORD Bulls have announced that fans' favourite Jorge Taufua has signed a new one-year deal to remain with the club into the 2025 season.

The 33-year-old powerhouse has become renowned for his big hits off the ball and his destructive carries with it during his time at Bartercard Odsal.

Having arrived midway through 2023, ‘The Jukebox’ has played a key role in successive third place finishes as well as an AB Sundecks 1895 Cup semi-final appearance this season.

Taufua has spoken of his excitement at the Bulls’ potential in 2025 under Brian Noble – whilst thanking the Bulls fans for their energy and support.

“I am very pleased to remain a Bull for next year, the last two seasons have gone pretty well and it is exciting to know what we already have and where we can go,” said Taufua.

“We exited the last two seasons in similar fashion so nothing short of being in a final and winning something next year should be what’s expected, so I am looking forward to that, looking forward to being in amongst the fans and the community again whilst working for a great club figure in Brian [Noble] too.

“Even before I met him for the first time I knew the type of respect he had at the club after all he has achieved and accomplished, I am eager to work directly under him. I know he has been in the background over the last couple of years but whenever he speaks, everyone listens and respects his words and I am looking forward to it – we have a good relationship so it should be fun.

“I feel settled here for sure, it has been enjoyable from being part of the squad to the fans, they have really taken me on as one of their players to support and get behind. At the back end of the season a lot of fans and members were asking me what was happening next year so I think this will give them a lot of relief to know I’ll be running around in the colours next year.

“My message to the fans is thank you for the energy you provided for me to stay, I appreciate the support so far and I cannot wait to lace up again for another year.

“Hopefully I get a different song for me but I am really grateful for their support and for everyone who has reached out and was eager for me to stay. Hopefully the Bulls and myself have a good one on and off the field next year!”

Newly-appointed head coach Brian Noble has spoken of his delight having retained Taufua’s services – insisting he’s a real ‘box office’ player.

“I’m thrilled, he was on a list of ‘must keeps’ and I think he has certainly enamoured himself with our fanbase! Everyone knows what he’s about and the integrity of the man is exceptional, on the quiet he is a good leader, a good player so I’m thrilled he’s staying.

“It’s crucial [work in yardage] but Jorge is much more than that, he is a quiet man but he impresses people with his actions, he is a whole lot better footballer than people might appreciate and has a utility value too.

"He can play well in the centres and we need to have a look at that but we have a number of players now who understand what it takes to play in backfield. Jorge ticks those boxes he is a great bloke, a hard worker who is meticulous about his Rugby League.

“We are in the entertainment business not just with the way we play but the people we have to entertain them too. Jorge is box office when he’s on, with others he will provide that x factor that we want and need in our team to be even more successful than last year.

“I’d also like to thank everyone associated with the Bradford Bulls Squad Booster Association and would encourage all Bradford fans to contribute whatever they can afford to help our recruitment and retention moving forward, enabling us to sign players like Jorge who get you off your seat.”