YORK Knights have announced that prop forward Brenden Santi has extended his deal with the club until the end of the 2024 season.

Santi has established himself as a key player in the York set-up after joining the Knights in June from Keighley Cougars, becoming an immediate fan favourite at the LNER Community Stadium.

The 30-year-old Italian international has enjoyed previous spells with Toulouse Olympique and Newcastle Thunder, boasting Betfred Super League experience as he looks to spearhead Andrew Henderson’s promotion ambitions.

Santi becomes the 17th player to become registered in the Knights’ squad, and joins the likes of AJ Towse, Harry Price and Josh Daley in penning extended deals.

“I’m really excited for 2024 and I’m delighted to have signed a new deal here with the club!” Santi enthused.

“Since coming here from Keighley, it’s felt like home straight away, coming into a group with a great bunch of lads.

“I’ve really enjoyed my time here so far and we had some real momentum behind us at the back end of last season to reach the play-offs.

“Everything that York is about is really exciting for me and I think that we’ve got some unfinished business still following the play-offs last year. Hopefully we can go one step further in 2024.”

Henderson added: “I’m really pleased to have secured Brenden’s services for the 2024 season and being able to see him continue his journey with the York Knights.

“I did not hesitate in bringing Brenden in when he became available midway through last season, having worked with him before and knowing the type of person and player he is.

“Brenden acquitted himself really well after joining the club and added real value to our forward pack and made a difference for us at the right time of the season.

“Brenden is another player that wants to be part of our journey and continue to help us grow as part of our Betfred Super League aspirations.”