SAM Wilde will join Widnes Vikings from Warrington Wolves from next season.

The 21-year-old, currently on loan with London Broncos, joins Vikings on a two-year deal.

Wilde, who was born in St Helens but moved to Wigan, impressed Vikings in his six appearances on loan with them earlier this year.

He said: “I’m thrilled to have joined Widnes Vikings.

"I really enjoyed my month-long loan earlier this season, so I am excited to now make this permanent move.

"It’s a great set-up at Widnes Vikings and I felt like I improved during my time at the club, so signing was an easy decision to make.

“It’s pleasing that the coaching team have appreciated me as a person and player, and have sought to bring me back on a permanent basis.

"I’m looking forward to wearing the Widnes Vikings shirt and getting out in front of the supporters again next season.”


 

The back rower has made 21 appearances for Warrington Wolves, including a starting role in the 2016 Super League Grand Final loss to Wigan Warriors.

Wilde first played rugby league for Blackbrook Royals before a house move to Wigan brought a switch to Shevington Sharks, from where Wolves added him to their scholarship set-up at the age of 15.

The former Wolves Academy captain, who represented his country against the Australian Schoolboys, made his first-team debut in 2015.

Warrington Guardian:

Sam Wilde on his first-team debut for Warrington Wolves against Wigan Warriors in 2015. Picture by Mike Boden

Vikings head coach Denis Betts says: “I am very pleased with this signing.

"Sam really impressed when he came here on loan.

"He’s young but he also has good experience too, including playing in a Grand Final.

"He can add a lot of competition to our forward pack, especially at back row. I’m excited by his addition to our squad.”