WIDNES Vikings have signed powerhouse prop Stanton Albert, fellow Papua New Guinea international and brother of already signed Wellington Albert.

The 23-year-old joins from PNG Hunters on a two-year deal, pending visa approval.

Vikings believe, following the tragic death of Kumuls World Cup teammate Kato Ottio who had been set to join Vikings, the pair will benefit from each other's presence in Black and White and settling into the community.

Weighing in at almost 17 stone, Stanton brings power and strength to the Vikings forward-line.

Papua New Guinean media have praised the forward for his impressive appearances for the Kumuls, describing him as ‘bulldozing’ through opposition defences in international Test appearances.

The explosive prop made three appearances at the 2017 Rugby League World Cup, including featuring in the defeats of Wales and Ireland.

He has represented Penrith Panthers in the Queensland Cup, joining the club in 2015, and was a pivotal member of the PNG Hunters team that won the 2017 Intrust Super Cup Premiership.

With 18 tackle breaks, 805 post-contact metres and 10 offloads in his 22 appearances for the Hunters last season, he proved to be an intimidating force for the Premiership winning side.

Denis Betts, head coach of Widnes Vikings, says: “Stanton is a player that we have had real interest in, even before my time at the World Cup.

"He came highly recommended to us by some of our key contacts in Australia, and I was very impressed in what I saw in his international appearances for PNG at the tournament.

"Stanton joins the Vikings with a great pedigree and a desire to build his career.

"He will create real competition for places, because he is desperate to play and wants to make the most out of this opportunity.

"His move also makes a lot of sense, given the tragic news of Kato’s passing.

"We believe that Wellington and Stanton will get the best out of each other, and settle well in the local community together.

"Of course, Widnes Vikings have a famous heritage of brothers and relatives representing the club, and we are excited that the pair have the opportunity to forge their own chapter in that history.

"I am sure that Stronghold members and supporters will relish seeing him in action this season.”

Stanton is proudly sponsored by VIQI.