Huddersfield Giants coach Paul Anderson has confirmed interest in signing Sam Rapira and described him as a “great player”.

The 28-year-old prop is leaving New Zealand Warriors at the end of the NRL season and seems destined for the John Smith’s Stadium.

“Sam Rapira is an international footballer and you don’t get caps and international appearances – and be a World Cup winner – without being someone of interest to us,” confirmed Anderson.

“He is a great player, somebody we would like to sign. I’m not saying we have or anything, but he is someone of interest to us.”

Kiwi forward Rapira is hoping to embark on a career in Super League after announcing he is to leave NRL outfit Warriors at the end of the season.

The 28-year-old Hamilton-born prop, who was a member of the Kiwis’ 2008 World Cup-winning team, has reportedly told his teammates he has decided to make his 10th season in the NRL his last.