London Broncos have secured the signing of experienced centre Toby King from Warrington Wolves on a two-year deal starting next season.
The move is part of a broader effort by the club to build a roster capable of competing in the Super League, where they hope to return at the end of this season.
London Broncos were purchased last year by a consortium of Australians led by Brisbane Broncos legend Darren Lockyer, injecting renewed ambition into the club.
The club remains one of the very few rugby league outfits operating south of Warrington, making its push for top-flight rugby league all the more significant for the sport’s wider reach.
King brings considerable pedigree to the role, having made his Super League debut in 2014 and accumulated over 200 appearances across more than a decade at the top level.
The experienced centre has scored 75 tries throughout his career, with stints at several clubs including a spell with the Wigan Warriors adding to his impressive record.
Owner Grant Wechsel expressed his enthusiasm for the signing, saying: “We are delighted to welcome Toby to London. When we look at the type of players we want at this club, Toby fits the profile perfectly.”
Wechsel added that King “brings proven Super League quality, leadership, professionalism and a winning mentality developed over more than a decade at the top level.”
The owner also highlighted the broader significance of attracting a player of King’s standing, saying: “As we continue building for the future, attracting players of Toby’s calibre demonstrates the ambition of this club.”
Wechsel was clear about the club’s ultimate destination, stating: “We believe London Broncos belongs in Super League and Toby’s decision to join us is another strong endorsement of the direction we are heading.”
He concluded by saying: “There is a huge opportunity ahead of us and we are excited that Toby has chosen to be part of that journey.”
Head coach Jason Demetriou has indicated the signing is expected to have a significant influence on the younger players within the London Broncos squad.
Many within the sport expect London Broncos to be granted a Super League place, either through expansion of the top flight or via the IMG grading process.
The IMG system ranks clubs across a range of metrics including on-field performance, attendances, and digital footprint, giving ambitious clubs like London a structured pathway back to the top flight.