Wigan have made 20-year-old South Sydney forward Gabriel Hamlin their first signing for 2018.
The prop or loose forward, who has yet to make his NRL debut, was recommended by ex-Wigan coach Michael Maguire and former player Pat Richards to executive director Kris Radlinski during his recent trip to Australia to finalise arrangements for the club's two-match tour in February.
"Both Michael and Pat mentioned that he was available and that he would be the perfect fit for Wigan," Radlinski said. "We believe that Gabriel has the potential to blossom here at Wigan."
Wigan coach Shaun Wane (pictured) said: "We are always on the lookout for talented players that have a good attitude and a real determination to improve.
"Developing players is a part of coaching that I really enjoy and at Wigan we have a great record of bringing in players and taking them onto the next level.
"When people like Michael Maguire and Pat Richards are both recommending a player to you then you take that recommendation very seriously and we all believe that Gabriel is a talented forward who can really fulfil his potential here at Wigan. We can't wait to have him join us."
Hamlin, whose mother was born in Blackpool, said: "I'm really excited about joining Wigan and I'm flattered that they think me worthy of this opportunity. I'm very proud of my English heritage.
"Although I've never been to the UK before I've heard great things about it. I have studied up on Wigan's great history and I am thrilled to get the opportunity to represent the club next season."
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