Warrington have signed Bryson Goodwin from Leigh Centurions after the clubs agreed a deal before the player moves over to England.
Leigh announced the signing of Goodwin for 2018 earlier this year, but following their relegation the New Zealand international will now join the Wolves instead.
The 31-year-old has signed a two-year deal at the Halliwell Jones Stadium and brings a wealth of experience, having made 176 NRL first-grade appearances.
Despite losing out on Goodwin, Leigh owner Derek Beaumont says the club have benefited financially from the situation after accepting a substantial offer.
“Once I was aware that Bryson had strong interest from a safe Super League club and would take that option should we get relegated I took the decision to accept a very strong and lucrative offer from Warrington,” said Beaumont.
“I appreciate the straight and direct way in which Simon Moran dealt with this and I acted in what I believe were the best interests of all parties even if we had stayed up.
“We have alternative targets with whom are in talks and details of any new signings, along with retention and release of any of our current squad, will be made through the normal channels as and when they take place.
“I wish Bryson the best of luck at Warrington and hope they are able to bounce back next year in the manner that Leeds have this year. I appreciate that this will seem negative for the Club but it has actually turned out to be a good piece of business for us under the circumstances.”
Speaking on the move, Goodwin said: “I’ve only heard really good things about Warrington from past players who have played at the club. I also spoke to Sam Burgess and he only had good words to say too. Everyone knows it’s a big club and I’m looking forward to joining.
“I really like the Super League; I’ve been watching a lot of it recently since I signed over there and from what I’ve seen it’s a really good competition and is getting better and better every year. The quality is high and am looking forward to playing in it.
“I’ve played a fair bit now so I will look to bring that experience and hopefully add something in both defence and attack, and play some good football.
“I’m looking forward to meeting the players and staff at Warrington and getting to know the members and fans of the club too, and then ripping into training. With a new coach to come on board as well it’s a fresh start for Warrington which is good.”
