Castleford Tigers have ended their full-back search with the signing of Phoenix Laulu-Togaga’e from Catalans Dragons, with Tyler Dupree also joining the West Yorkshire club.

Both players, who have signed until the end of the 2029 season, are in line to make their debuts against Hull KR on Thursday night, marking a return to Craven Park for Laulu-Togaga’e.

The Tigers had been on the lookout for a full-back since losing Blake Taaffe to a season-ending knee injury in round one.

Although he featured in a variety of roles at Catalans, Laulu-Togaga’e fits the bill and is now set for an extended run in his preferred position in Castleford colours.

Dupree, meanwhile, adds size and experience to the pack.

Tigers director of rugby Chris Chester said: "I’m delighted to get both players over the line.

"Tyler competes hard in everything he does. He is a winner and gives us some much-needed power up front in the pack.

"He has represented his country and we are hoping he achieves that again whilst playing at the Castleford Tigers.

Tyler Dupree bolsters Castleford's front-row stocks. (Photo: Fabrice Rodriguez/SWpix.com)

placeholder image — Tyler Dupree bolsters Castleford's front-row stocks. (Photo: Fabrice Rodriguez/SWpix.com)

"Phoenix is a quality young player who became available late on last week. He can play in a number of positions in the backline. We will use him primarily at full-back to cover the loss of Blake Taaffe.

"He's quick, agile and has great footwork at the line. I'm really looking forward to seeing him play in the black and amber colours."

Laulu-Togaga'e spent much of his time at Hull KR out on loan, scoring 29 tries in 46 games during a successful two-season spell in the lower leagues with Oldham.

The youngster earned a move to the Robins after an eye-catching introduction to professional rugby league at Keighley Cougars but was limited to nine appearances, the last of those coming in 2023.

Phoenix Laulu-Togaga'e has secured a move back to Yorkshire. (Photo: Olly Hassell/SWpix.com)

Laulu-Togaga'e left Craven Park at the end of last year to join the Dragons on a one-year deal. However, he has departed after playing just seven games.

Dupree also joins the Tigers after a short spell in the south of France.

The Leeds Rhinos academy product featured six times for the Super League newcomers.

Dupree, who counts Oldham and Salford Red Devils among his other former clubs, was a regular in Wigan Warriors’ 2024 treble-winning side and made 24 appearances last season.

The Halifax native has now secured a permanent release from his Wigan contract.

"It was an opportunity that felt right for me at this stage of my career," he said. "Once I spoke to the staff and understood the direction the club's heading in, it was an easy decision.

"What excites me most is the real ambition the club holds and the strong identity and history it has. The fans are class and there's a big passion around the club, which you want as a player.

"I'm looking forward to getting stuck in, contributing to the team and hopefully achieving something special here."