Ex-Wigan winger Charnley is back in rugby league

The 26-year-old will join the Wolves immediately after cutting short his time in rugby union with Sale Sharks.

Charnley crossed codes after helping Wigan win the Super League Grand Final in 2016 - the last of more than 170 appearances for the Cherry and Whites since his debut in 2010.

He went on to make 32 appearances for Sale but struggled to nail down a regular spot.

Charnley said: “I like this club. It’s a good club to be at, there’s a good culture here and I’m looking forward to getting stuck in with the lads and pushing for that top four spot.

“There wasn’t much persuasion needed. I know a few boys here who speak highly of this club so it wasn’t a tough decision to put pen to paper.

“I’ve always liked playing at this stadium, it’s one of my favourites. Hopefully I’ll fit straight in with the boys. I’ve been out of the game 17 months. I’ll be looking to bring some enthusiasm to the boys and bring a bit of pace to the team. I’ll try and be a bit physical and try and give the lads a lift.”

Charnley, who has signed a deal until the end of 2020, is set to face former club Wigan for the first time at the Magic Weekend in mid-May.

Warrington visit the DW Stadium on July 2.

Wolves head coach Steve Price said: “Josh is an exciting talent. I kept an eye on him for a number of years prior to him going to rugby union. He’s a player who can beat people and break tackles. He’s got electric speed and is a fantastic finisher. I feel he can bring something different to what we currently have at the moment.

“Josh is excited to get back to where his passion lies which is rugby league; he’s excited to come back into the game that he has grown up on all his career and to be joining our football club.”