Warriors sign Swinton centre Chris Hankinson

The centre will link-up with his new teammates tomorrow and could be in the frame to make his debut against St Helens.It is understood he caught Wigan’s attention while they were monitoring their dual-registration players at the Championship club.

As part of the agreement with the club’s dual-registration partners, three players with join up with the Lions’ squad – Joe Brown, Craig Mullen and Macauley Davies – on loan deals for the remainder of the 2018 season, including the Championship Shield fixtures.

On his move to Wigan, the 24-year-old said: "I wish to thank everyone at Swinton for the help and support they’ve given me, especially Stuart Littler who has helped me develop my game and Andy Mazey who since coming onboard last year as Chairman has been a breath of fresh air for the club.

“I’d like to thank the club for allowing me to take this fantastic opportunity, while excited by the challenge that awaits I just want to wish Swinton and the Lions supporters all the best for the future.”

Lions Chairman Andy Mazey said “While nobody wants to see quality players leave, as soon as it became clear Chris wished to talk to Wigan it was my job to ensure we secured the best possible deal for Swinton Lions. After consulting the board we came to a decision to accept a very strong and lucrative offer from Wigan Warriors for the transfer of Chris.

“We have rejected a number of approaches from Super League and full-time Championship clubs for Chris over the last few months and had absolutely no intention of letting him go this year unless the right deal came along.