Warrington Wolves land NRL prop Thomas Mikaele as young forward heads to the Championship

Warrington Wolves are set to bolster their pack with the arrival of Wests Tigers prop Thomas Mikaele after the forward was released from his NRL contract. Mikaele, 24, is expected to be announced by the Wolves in the coming days in a deal that will see him remain at the club until the end of the 2024 season.

The prop has been a regular for Wests, playing eight times this season and making 68 appearances since his debut in 2019. But now he will join the Wire on a deal that will see him arrive imminently. It's the beginning of big changes to the squad ahead of 2023, with several players expected both in and out.

The Wire have quota spots free which has enabled them to make the move and to free up salary cap space it is understood that Ellis Robson has left by club by mutual consent and is expected to link up with Championship side Newcastle Thunder for the rest of the season.

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In a statement, Wests Tigers CEO said: "I speak on behalf of all at the club in thanking Thomas for his contributions over the past few years and

Coach Michael Maguire added: “It’s a good opportunity for Thomas and he leaves our club with the very best wishes. I'm sure we'll see Thomas back in the NRL at some stage."

Robson hasn't been given regular opportunities at the Halliwell Jones Stadium and will now continue his development in the second tier for the remainder of the season. Warrington also recently released Rob Butler, who made the move to Super League side Wakefield Trinity.