Warrington Wolves confirm shock swoop for Super League forward Matty Nicholson

Warrington Wolves have signed a rival Super League star with immediate effect.

That man is teenager Matty Nicholson from Wigan Warriors.

The 18-year-old England Knights international is one of the country’s most exciting young forwards and can play either loose-forward or back-row. The Halifax-born forward was highly-sought after amongst Super League and NRL Clubs.

Nicholson scored twice on his first Super League appearance for the Warriors last month against Huddersfield Giants in an impressive debut.

He will add valuable strength to Warrington’s forwards options for next season along with a number of the club’s Academy graduates who will be promoted up to the first team.

Matty Nicholson said: “I’m excited to be joining Warrington and it’s an opportunity I’m really excited about.

“After speaking to Daryl [Powell] and Karl [Fitzpatrick] I’m excited to be a part of the plans that are in place here for the next few years. I feel like I can play my best rugby under Daryl and kick on with my development here at Warrington.”

Warrington Wolves Head Coach Daryl Powell added: “Matty is one of the best young forwards in the game and we are delighted he will be joining us as we look to create an exciting mix of experience and youth in our pack.

“He will join us as a driven young player alongside Thomas Mikaele (24) and James Harrison (26) as a strong pack foundation for the future.”

Warrington Wolves CEO Karl Fitzpatrick said: “Matty has been on our radar from the age of 14.

“He has always been one of the standout players at every tier. Matty was in very high demand, receiving offers from the NRL, so we are absolutely delighted that he’s decided to join us.

“We already have some fantastic young talent in our first grade squad, Matty’s addition will bring further quality. Next year he will be joined by some of our outstanding academy players as they move up in to first grade, so the future is looking extremely bright.

“The deal was originally for 2023 so I’d like to thank Wigan for allowing Matty to join us with immediate effect.”