Wakefield Wildcats sign Samoan star Sio on 18-month deal

The 22-year-old will join First Utility Super League’s bottom club from Australian outfit Mackay Cutters.

Auckland-born Sio began his career as a junior at Marist Saints before being signed by New Zealand Warriors.

He moved to Queensland Cup side Mackay Cutters for the 2015 season.

Sio - who can play hooker, second-row or loose-forward - has also represented Samoa, playing alongside Wildcats’ Pita Godinet.

He made his Test debut in 2013 and was in the Samoan side which lost narrowly to England in the opening game of last year’s Four Nations.

“It has always been a dream of mine to play in the Super League,” Sio said.

“A number of the Samoan boys are playing in the UK and they all speak so highly of the competition

“To be given the opportunity to join Wakefield and play under Brian Smith, a legend of the game, there was never any doubt as to if I would go.

“I know we have a fight on our hands, but I can’t wait to get over there and dig in with the team and get the results we need.”

Wakefield chairman Michael Carter said: “I am delighted to welcome Michael to the club.

“He is a young guy who can play a variety of positions for us and I am looking forward to watching him helping our cause for the next 18 months.”