It’s been less than a fortnight since Wigan Warriors defeated Catalans Dragons to lift the Grand Final at Old Trafford but Matt Peet’s side have continued their impressive recruitment for 2024 by signing young forward Sam Eseh.

Eseh was a shining light in a Wakefield Trinity side that found themselves relegated during the 2023 campaign and he’ll now join a Wigan pack teeming with talent.

Already the Warriors have recruited England international Luke Thompson from Canterbury Bulldogs as well as fellow English youngsters Tyler Dupree mid season, and Leeds Rhinos rising star Sam Walters.

Eseh will be just another impressive piece in what was already a Grand Final winning forward pack.

The news of his signing came just hours after Wakefield Trinity’s takeover was completed, Matt Ellis having become the sole owner of the club and Daryl Powell appointed in charge.

Wigan confirmed their signing of Eseh via social media and their website with the following statement.

“Wigan Warriors are delighted to announce the signing of Sam Eseh Jr on a two-year deal from Wakefield Trinity with an option for a third year.

“Eseh, who featured 16 times for Wakefield in 2023, was handed a first team contract in January 2021, rewarding his progress through the Trinity Scholarship and Academy ranks where he was under the tutelage of Mark Applegarth.

“The East Leeds Community Club product carried off the 2022 Championship Young Player of the Year prize after impressing on loan at Barrow, then Featherstone. Eseh, who is 6’4″, beat London Broncos halfback Oli Leyland and York winger AJ Towse to the seasonal second-tier award.”

On signing for the Warriors, Eseh said: “I’m really excited to be signing a deal with the Warriors. Growing up playing rugby I’ve always known Wigan as a club that is relentless in anything they do and that’s something I can’t wait to be a part of.

“I’d also like to thank Wakefield Trinity and the staff for giving me the opportunity to get to this point in my career.”

On the arrival of Eseh, Matt Peet said: “Sam is a player we have been tracking for a few years and it is the right time for him to join us.

“He has already proved himself capable of performing at Super League level and we are confident his attitude will be a good fit for our Club. We look forward to welcoming Sam and his family.”