Dogs confirm signing of Lolesi and Tonga

The Bulldogs have confirmed one of the worst kept secrets in rugby league - the signings of centres Jamaal Lolesi and Willie Tonga to two-year deals.

The club has been desperate to cover the impending departure of New Zealand international centre pairing Nigel Vagana to Cronulla and Willie Talau to English club St Helens. News that 22-year-old Canberra centre Lolesi would join the Bulldogs from 2004 broke at a press conference nine days ago to help promote a match between the Raiders and St George Illawarra.

19-year-old Tonga has made only eight first grade appearances for the Eels since making his debut against the Sydney Roosters in June last year.