Wakefield Trinity have acted fast to beat the Super League transfer window and bring in a fresh signing ahead of the play-offs.
Hit with a number of injuries in recent weeks including Jay Pitts (bicep) and Isaiah Vagana (shoulder) in the pack, and also without Jazz Tevaga through suspension for Friday’s game against Wigan, Wakefield have moved fast and signed Catalans’ Zac Lipowicz.
Lipowicz, who only signed for the Dragons ahead of this season, has been a shining light in what has been a poor season for Catalans with the second-rower playing in all 23 Super League games so far this year.
During that time, he’s scored six tries and has averaged almost 30 tackles per game but perhaps more crucially, he’s fit and ready to go, which is more than can be said for most of Wakefield’s second-row options.
Trinity’s interest was first reported by All Out Rugby League and the deal has now been confirmed with Wakefield announcing that the 24-year-old will sign on a deal until the end of the season.
They confirmed it as a permanent deal that runs until the end of the season meaning that should Lipowicz impress then he can perhaps land a deal for 2027, particularly as Seth Nikotemo has departed the club.
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Wakefield Trinity sign Zac Lipowicz in immediate switch
The former Penrith Panthers junior will be available for Friday night’s game against Wigan, a match that Wakefield must win if they’re to keep their top two hopes alive.
Announcing the deal, Wakefield said: “Wakefield Trinity can confirm the signing of Zac Lipowicz from Super League side Catalans Dragons.
“The permanent deal runs until the end of the 2026 season with Lipowicz joining up with Wakefield with immediate effect to help bolster the squad for the Final Charge.”
Lipowicz said: “I’m excited to be joining Wakefield Trinity, the club has shown great ambition over the past few years. They’ve played some incredible rugby league so far in 2026 and I can’t wait to meet the boys and get stuck in until the end of the season.”
Powell noted the club’s recent injury issues when explaining the signing, stating: “After losing several players to injury over the last 10 days it has become really important for us to strengthen our numbers as we move towards the crucial part of the season.
“We were made aware of Zac’s availability and moved quickly to bring him on board for the remainder of the season. He’s had a really strong season at Catalans and we believe will fit superbly into our squad.”
👊🏻 Lipowicz answers Trinity’s reinforcements call!!
The 24-year old back rower joins on a permanent deal until the end of the season!!
Full Details 👉🏻 https://t.co/K7rrHEpc3I#UpTheTrin pic.twitter.com/pacNhKROse
— Wakefield Trinity (@WTrinityRL) August 18, 2026
