Super League giants Wigan Warriors have signed the 20-year-old Barrow forward Finn McMillan on a two-year contract.
The Warriors also hold an option for a third year and he links up with the club immediately.
Wigan have been watching his performances in the Championship in the middle of the park and have marked him out as one of the most promising young forwards in the competition.
McMillan brings a combination of physicality, mobility and work rate.
Comfortable operating across the middle unit, he is known for his defensive resilience, strong carry, and willingness to do the hard work in contact.
He began playing for Roose Pioneers aged six, coached by his father Paul, and has spent more than a decade with the Raiders linking up with Barrow’s development side, Furness Raiders, at the age of 16, and has often attracted interest from other top flight clubs.
He was recently selected to play for Cumbria in the 70-6 victory over Nigeria at Barrow’s Craven Park, starting the game at loose forward.
Warriors head coach Matt Peet said: “Finn caught our eye with performances for Barrow last year and we fully believe that he has the potential to develop into a first team player.
“He will continue to play for Barrow alongside training full-time with Wigan.
“Barrow, in particular Paul Crarey should be congratulated for the work they’ve done with him. He joins a group of strong and determined group of young forwards at our club whom we expect to dominate for many years to come.”
McMillan said: “It’s a dream come true to be signing for Wigan, I’ve supported them since I was a kid and to have the opportunity to play for them is unreal.
“I want to thank my family for helping me out along the way, especially my dad who coached me growing up.
“I’d also like to thank Barrow for developing me and understanding it’s a big opportunity for me and allowing me to pursue it.”
Barrow Raiders chairman Steve Neale said: “We wish Finn well with this great opportunity.
“It works out well for all concerned: Finn gets to train in a full-time environment whilst still being available for Barrow, should he not break into the first team. We also get the benefit of having loan signings available from Wigan throughout the season.
“The message it says to our youngsters is that joining Barrow is still a route to Super League.”
