Hull move quickly to seal signing of highly-rated Pitts from rivals Rhinos

Highly-rated Pitts, 22, has played in three games for the champions this season, including their recent win over Warrington Wolves.

However, they have given the former Wakefield Trinity Wildcats player an early release and he has now signed a two-and-a-half year deal in East Yorkshire.

Injury-hit Hull entertain troubled Bradford Bulls this evening but Pitts is more likely to debut in the Good Friday derby against Hull KR.

“Jay was firmly on our radar for next year but, with our current injury situation, we felt it was a good time to explore his availability now,” said Black and Whites coach Peter Gentle. “We’re grateful to Leeds, who gave us permission to talk to him and having now had a chance to share our ideas and vision with him we’re really pleased he sees his future with Hull FC and not a number of other clubs.”

Pitts said: “Leeds is a massive club but Hull FC feels just as big if not bigger.

“There is so much potential here and they seem to be heading in the right direction.

“I’ve got very high expectations of myself.

“I want to be playing in finals and playing for my country. I think I can achieve all that here.

“It’s all happened very quickly but, when the opportunity came up, I jumped at the chance and hopefully I’ll be here until the end of my career.”

Hull are without Mark O’Meley, Joe Westerman, Sam Moa and Mike Burnett for tonight’s home game against Bradford, who have reported continued interest in their bid to raise £1m and save themselves from extinction.

Last night, the pledge total had passed £155,000 after Widnes owner Steve O’Connor had personally donated £10,000, while Jamie Peacock has put his 2003 Grand Final winner’s ring and shirt up for sale.

There have been a couple of tentative enquiries from parties who may be interested in buying the club but the fear remains they could soon fall into administration.

Elsewhere, Castleford Tigers hope to end a seven-game losing run when Hull KR arrive at Wheldon Road.

Ian Millward’s side have not won since the opening night and