Catalans Dragons have reached an agreement with the Penrith Panthers and Ben Garcia for the re-signing of the French International on a two and a half year contract with immediate effect.

The young forward, who previously played for Brisbane Broncos’ NYC side, returned to Australia this season, having signed a two-year deal with Penrith.

Garcia, 23 years old, has made 46 Super League appearances and scored 10 tries with the Dragons.

On re-signing with the Dragons, Ben Garcia said: “It was a tough decision to leave the Panthers. I have always dreamed to play in the NRL, I had a great year down under but I couldn’t refuse the contract offered by the Dragons. It’s the club I love, it’s the club where I started my professional career and I’m really happy to be back here. I would like to thank the Penrith Panthers who have understood and respected my decision and I’m looking forward now to joining my team mates and playing again in front of the Gilbert Brutus crowd. The club has a great season so far and I hope I can bring my contribution to its success.”
 

Catalans head coach Laurent Frayssinous commented: “I am delighted to welcome Benjamin back to the club. He is a talented young player and his qualities and his versatility will help the team to move forward. He always kept the club in his heart and, after his experience in Australia, he is really motivated to add his contribution. He will add depth to a talented squad and I’m sure he will help the team to reach their goals.”

Club CEO Christophe Jouffret  added: "The club is facing one of the biggest injury crisis it has faced. 10 of our first team players were out due to injury last Friday for the game at Warrington. We still have great ambitions for this season and it was necessary to add some depth to our squad. Benjamin is a young French International, he knows the club and he will add quality and freshness to our squad for the big games to come in the Super 8’s and the Challenge Cup