Wigan add Escare and Forsyth
Wigan have signed Catalans fullback Morgan Escare on a one-year deal and signed Bath utility Liam Forsyth to a two-year deal.
A flamboyant attacking player, Escaré made his debut for Catalans in 2013 and burst onto the Super League scene scoring 18 tries in just 20 games.
He continued that fine form in 2014, scoring a further 29 tries in 32 games, and in total played 91 games for the Dragons, scoring 64 tries.
Escaré joins Wigan on an initial one-year deal with a second year option in the club’s favour.
Chairman Ian Lenagan said: “Arrivals into the 2017 Squad are now nearing completion. We felt that additional quality in the backs would be needed to help cover wing and full-back and to add competition for places with our promoted Academy players.
“Dom Manfredi’s knee injury is severe and he will miss a large part of next season and, whilst Lewis Tierney has done a fine job and will be hard to displace, Morgan Escare will now cover the fullback position and add experienced competition for the wing position.
“We believe he can become an important squad player for Wigan just as Willie Isa did so well this season.”
Head Coach Shaun Wane said: “Having met with Morgan, we were pleased with the determination he showed to join Wigan.
“He is a talented player who is keen to revitalise his career and we believe that he can do that here at Wigan with our exceptional player development capabilities.
“His try-scoring record at the Catalans club speaks for itself and we look forward to building on that at Wigan next year.”
Escaré said: “After four years in Super League with Catalans, I feel that the time is right for a change for me.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for my family and me and we are really excited to be joining Wigan.
“I grew up in France watching and admiring Wigan and it will be an honour and a privilege to represent the Cherry and Whites in 2017.”
Forsyth also arrives from rugby union club Bath. An exciting young winger, Forsyth was a product of the Wigan Academy, having previously spent two seasons playing for the Wigan Under-19s team making 40 appearances and scoring 27 tries.
Formerly of the Bold Miners Amateur Club, the 20-year old has spent much of his junior career playing Rugby League. Forsyth has signed a two-year contract with the option of a third year, in the club’s favour.
Forsyth said: “I already know many of the players and it’s been great to see so many Wigan Academy players make their debuts in this Grand Final winning season.
“I want to follow in their footsteps next season and will be doing everything possible to impress the coaching staff to show them that I am ready to play for the First Team.
“I’m really looking forward to the start of pre-season.”