Wakefield Trinity chase Wigan Warriors forward ahead of Super League return

[josie andrews]

Exclusive: Wakefield are looking to put the finishing pieces on their squad for 2025.

Wakefield Trinity are working on a deal to sign young Wigan Warriors forward Harvey Makin. Rugby League Live understands the two clubs have held talks regarding a loan arrangement which would see the prop start the season with the newly promoted club.

Wakefield are putting the final touches on their squad ahead of their Super League return and believe they need another prop in their ranks to ensure they have the necessary depth to handle the rigours of the season. That has seen them enquire about Makin, a 21-year-old middle who got his first test of Super League action last year during a loan spell with London Broncos.

Makin played six times for the Broncos last season and gained further experience in the Championship playing for Barrow Raiders and Bradford Bulls, making 16 appearances in the second tier. Despite playing for three different clubs, Makin essentially had his first full season as a first-grade player in 2024.

Those performances have caught the eye of Wakefield, who have now moved to secure his services for the start of next season. As it stands, a deal has yet to be finalised but there is an expectation from all involved that an arrangement will be reached once the festive period is over.

That will put another piece in Daryl Powell's puzzle, with the Wakefield boss of the belief that further competition for places in the middle unit is ideal as they prepare for life back in the top flight. Wakefield do already have options in that area through Mike McMeeken, Ky Rodwell, Caleb Hamlin-Uele, Renouf Atoni, Matty Storton, Luke Bain, Mathieu Cozza and Isaac Shaw.

However, Makin looks set to provide Powell with another option at the start of next season, with discussions expected to wrap up in the next few weeks.

Wigan have yet to debut Makin but have high hopes for the youngster. With the club's middle unit currently injury-free, allowing Makin to head out on loan can ensure he gets first-team opportunities to aid his development while he waits for his opportunity at the Brick Community Stadium.

https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/ru ... 48a1cfd938