Hull FC sign Leigh Centurions scrum-half Jamie Ellis

Hull FC have been monitoring Ellis's progress at Leigh

Hull FC have signed scrum-half Jamie Ellis from Leigh Centurions on a two-year contract.

The 21-year-old will finish this season with the Championship club before joining the Black and Whites in time for the 2012 Super League campaign.

Ellis told Hull's club website: "They are a massive club with loads of potential. They are a big Super League club and I can't wait.

"I feel this is an opportunity to show some people exactly what I can do."

He added: "The move to Leigh has done me the world of good. I have loved every minute of it but this was too good an opportunity to turn down."

Ellis started his career at amateur club Chorley Panthers before joining the youth system at St Helens, where he spent time working with current Hull half-back Sean Long.

But he found his chances limited by the emergence of Kyle Eastmond, and moved to Leigh before the start of this season.

He has impressed in the Championship, running in 21 tries and kicking seven goals.

Hull coach Richard Agar added: "Jamie is a skilful young player with an outstanding kicking game and a lot of potential in front of him.

"He has made great strides and playing regular first-team rugby at Leigh under Ian Millward has really helped his game.

"If he can continue his development we are confident he can turn into a first class Super League half-back."