Whare is a Dragon

Catalans Dragons are pleased to announce the signing of Dean Whare.

The New Zealand international, who was playing at Penrith, is the third Steve McNamara signing for the 2021 season.

Whare, 31, has signed a two year contract which will keep him at the Gilbert Brutus Stadium until the end of the 2022 season.

Whare started his professional career at the Manly Sea Eagles in 2010 before joining Penrith in 2013. He is a versatile player who can also play fullback or winger but he cemented a centre position during his first season at the Panthers. He finished the following year as the club's top try-scorer.

He scored 40 tries in 155 games during his career.

The New Zealand international also featured in two World Cups in 2013 and 2017 and was a member of the New Zealand side that won the 2014 Four Nations. He scored 4 tries in 19 games with the Kiwis.

Dean Whare said of his move to Perpignan: "I am very excited for the new opportunity to be joining the Catalans Dragons. I am looking forward to meeting the team and embracing the French culture. There are some exciting times ahead and I can't wait to start."

Steve McNamara, Catalans Dragons Head Coach said of his new signing: "Dean will be a great addition to our squad. He is an outstanding professional with great ethics, he will bring real quality and class to our attack whilst he is also a player who loves the tough defensive side of the game." 

Dean Whare profile

Date of Birth : 22 January, 1990 Height : 185 cm Weight : 96 kg Position : Centre Previous Clubs : Manly Sea Eagles, Penrith Panthers Debut : Manly Sea Eagles vs North Queensland Cowboys, 29/05/2010 Club stats : Manly Sea Eagles (2010-12) : 25 appearances,  9 tries | Penrith Panthers (2013-20) : 130 appearances, 31 tries Rep. Honours : New Zealand (19 appearances, 4 tries)