James Graham will join the Dragons on a three-year deal and will be released by the Bulldogs.

The 31-year-old confirmed the news to team mates following his side’s 26-20 defeat of the Red V on Sunday.

Canterbury are desperate to get under the salary cap for 2018 with Graham collateral damage as the club tries to free up funds.

The England international is on a back-ended deal at Belmore for 2018 worth more than $1 million.

Graham joined the Bulldogs in 2012 and has captained the club since 2015, appearing in two grand finals.

The Dragons are expected to release a statement confirming Graham’s signing in the next 48 hours.