By Nick Spencer and Scott Bailey in London
ENGLISH halfback George Williams has knocked back interest from several NRL clubs, inking a new deal that will keep him in the Super League with Warrington until the end of 2026.
A revelation at the Raiders in 2020, Williams left the club in acrimonious circumstances in 2021 claiming he was homesick after a release was initially denied by Canberra.
The 28-year-old revealed last November he had not ruled out returning to the NRL, where he could have again been a star given the dearth of off-contract halves talent.
Warrington confirmed in re-signing Williams that he was “highly sought after” by “several NRL clubs”, before locking him into the Super League for the next three seasons.
Wests Tigers are known to be in the market for a halfback after going hard at Mitch Moses, with Luke Brooks off-contract this year.
Williams would have been a key signing for the Tigers given it would have allowed them to shift Brooks to No.6 if they do re-sign him, where Tim Sheens believes he plays best.
Canterbury and the Dolphins are among other clubs who have pursued Moses or other halves in the past year, and could have also presented themselves as options for Williams.
But ultimately, he decided to stay put with the Wolves after helping the club to eight straight wins.
“As a halfback you’re probably hitting your prime years at my age or maybe even a bit older when your experience and understanding of the game is better,” Williams said.
“Hopefully my best years are ahead of me, we can keep winning and doing my bit for the team.”
Former NSW State of Origin and Kangaroos Test prop Paul Vaughan has also extended his time with the Wolves, set to stay until 2025.
Vaughan, 31, made the switch from the Bulldogs in the off-season after a drama-filled end to his time in the NRL.
“I’m excited to extend my stay,” Vaughan told Sky Sports.
“It’s been very enjoyable so far and hopefully we can keep the ball rolling for a successful year.
“We’ve really enjoyed our time here so far with the family, and with the boys playing such great football as well it’s a big factor.”
–AAP with agencies
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