NRL outside back Albert Hopoate is set to join Warrington Wolves for the 2026 Super League season, according to reports.
Hopoate was one of six players released by Canberra Raiders at the end of the club’s NRL season without the offer of a new deal, alongside Jamal Fogarty, Danny Levi, Trey Mooney, Pasami Saulo and Jordan Martin.
But, if reports are to be believed, it seems the 24-year-old has wasted no time in getting a deal done with a new club, with Warrington in the frame. That’s according to established Australian journalist The Mole, who claims the Wolves have made him their latest signing as they prepare for the 2026 season.
Hopoate started his NRL career at Manly Sea Eagles, but he has spent the last four seasons with Canberra. In that time he made 37 first grade appearances for the club, with 2023 being his strongest campaign, making 20 outings under Ricky Stuart.
He made just one outing in the NRL this season, though, after an injury hit season in the Australian capital. As such, Canberra have let him go and while the deal is dependant on the results of a medical, Warrington are reported to have snapped him up in what could prove to be an important pick up for the Cheshire outfit.
Hopoate is versatile and can play at centre and on the wing, while he has also spent time at full-back in seasons gone by. And, it’s fair to say Warrington are short of experience and depth in the outside backs. Josh Thewlis and Matty Ashton look set to be Sam Burgess’ first choice wingers next season but, centre has been a tricky spot for the head coach to fill this year.
With Rodrick Tai off-contract, Stefan Ratchford retiring and Arron Lindop still coming back from his an ACL rupture, it makes sense that Hopoate would be asked to play centre, should he make the move to Warrington Wolves.
Warrington have announced three signings for next season, with Tevita Pangai Jr, Liam Byrne and Toafofoa Sipley making the move to the Halliwell Jones Stadium.
Hopoate is the brother of ex-St Helens centre Will Hopoate and the son of former Australia international John Hopoate.
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