WARRINGTON Wolves’ signing of England half-back Gareth Widdop has been hailed as “arguably the biggest signing in the club’s history.”

The St George Illawarra captain will play one more season in Australia with the Dragons before joining up with The Wire on a three-year deal ahead of the 2020 campaign.

RE-CAP > How we broke the news of Gareth Widdop's signing

Wigan Warriors, St Helens and Huddersfield Giants had all tabled offers, but Widdop agreed the deal to join The Wire on Tuesday morning.

The club had been in talks with the 29-year-old since before Christmas before sealing the move.

Wire chief executive Karl Fitzpatrick explained just how the club got the deal over the line.

“We were made aware of his intention to come back to England before Christmas,” he said.

“A number of clubs were also interested but for Gareth this was not just a financial decision.

“It would be naive to say that played no part but the ambitions of the club, the current squad, (head coach) Steve Price and our location all went into the decision.

“We have had numerous discussions with his agent and Gareth himself over the Christmas period.

“But nothing is confirmed until someone signs the contract and we got that confirmation on Tuesday.”

He added: “Bringing in this world-class player is a major boost for the sport in this country,” he said.

“This is arguably the biggest signing in the club’s history and quite possibly in the history of Super League.

“In 2020, Gareth will be a fantastic addition to an already formidable squad.

“This, once again, demonstrates the ambition of Warrington Wolves.”