Storm confirm Hawkins signing

Melbourne have moved to plug some of the holes in their backline by signing Canberra NRL centre Jeremy Hawkins.

The Storm lost Matt Duffie, Mahe Fonua and Kurt Mann from their outside backs during the off-season, but have also secured the services of former Manly winger Cheyse Blair.

"We've been on the look-out for a player that can bolster our stocks in that area and we believe Jeremy can have an immediate impact," Melbourne's football director Frank Ponissi said.

"Jeremy's strength is his speed and powerful ball-running ability and he will benefit enormously from spending time with and learning from the likes of the experienced Billy Slater and Will Chambers."

The 22-year-old Kiwi junior, who was originally signed with the Raiders until the end of 2017, has scored two tries in seven first grade matches.