Confirmed! Newcastle Knights sign North Queensland sensation Kalyn Ponga

IT’S official. Newcastle have confirmed the signing of Kalyn Ponga from 2018 but they are refusing to give up hope of snaring him for next season.

Kalyn Ponga at training.

IT’S official. Newcastle have confirmed the signing of Kalyn Ponga from 2018 but they are refusing to give up hope of snaring him for next season.

The Knights released a statement on Monday, stating Ponga has signed a four-year-deal starting next year.

The 18-year-old remains contracted to North Queensland for 2017 but Knights CEO Matt Gidley hasn’t ruled out welcoming him to the Hunter next season.

“As it stands, we are excited about Kalyn joining us in 2018,” Gidley said.

“Should the Cowboys decide to release Kalyn before the conclusion of his contract, we would certainly welcome him to the club at an earlier date.”

Kalyn Ponga of the Cowboys in action.

The rich contract is worth around $600,000-a-year and includes representative bonuses which would see the teen earn well over $3 million when activated.

A talented fullback, Ponga has played two NRL matches to date, both in the 2016 finals series with the Cowboys.

“There is no doubt Kalyn is a very talented and exciting young player and his signing is definitely a coup for the club,” coach Nathan Brown said.

“We look forward to further developing his talent and welcoming his family to Newcastle.”

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Originally published as Confirmed! Newcastle Knights sign North Queensland sensation Kalyn Ponga