Warrington set to sign veteran NRL forward as Catalans deal collapses

Warrington Wolves are set to sign Nathan Brown from NRL outfit Manly Sea Eagles after his deal to join Catalans Dragons collapsed, according to reports Down Under.

Fairfield-born Brown, who has represented Italy at each of the last two editions of the Rugby League World Cup through his heritage, will turn 34 next March.

With just shy of 200 NRL appearances on his CV, the veteran forward – who represented New South Wales in State of Origin back in 2020 – has been a Manly player since the start of 2024.

His contract with the Sea Eagles comes to an end this year though, and throughout the season, reports have suggested he was bound to make the switch to Super League with Catalans in 2027.

But now, it would appear his move to the Dragons has collapsed, and Wire will instead take him on board ahead of next season.

Warrington set to sign veteran NRL forward Nathan Brown as Catalans deal collapses

Brown and Wolves head coach Sam Burgess are no strangers having played 20 games alongside one another for South Sydney Rabbbitohs in 2016.

Australian journalist Tony Adams, more commonly known as ‘The Mole‘, has reported the news of Brown’s impending transfer to The Halliwell Jones Stadium.

He wrote on social media: “Hearing Manly’s Nathan Brown to Catalans Dragons looks like falling through, BUT he is close to joining big Sammy Burgess at Warrington Wolves in Super League!”

If the move comes to fruition, Wire – who currently sit fourth on the Super League ladder – will bolster their squad with an experienced forward able to slot into the front-row or at loose.

Brown has worn the colours of Wests Tigers, Souths, Parramatta, Sydney Roosters and current club Manly in the NRL, with a Grand Final appearance to his name made in 2022 during his time as an Eels player.

Notably, the Wolves have already announced the signings of three players for 2027.

The first of those was Leeds Rhinos half-back Brodie Croft, who will replace outgoing captain George Williams as he heads back to the NRL with the Dolphins. Fellow playmaker Marc Sneyd is also departing to return to Championship outfit Salford RLFC.

Wire also announced the signings of young Australian props Toby Crosby and Mitch Prest earlier this week. The pair of 23-year-olds have never played first-grade before, but have caught the eye while playing at second-grade level Down Under.

WATCH THE LRL PODCAST!