Rhinos entice promising scrum-half Kettlewell

The 18-year-old started his career with Gloucester in rugby union before switching codes to join Super League champions Wigan towards the end of the 2010 season, playing for the Warriors' academy.

Kettlewell has been training with the Rhinos as he looked to overcome a knee injury he suffered while at Wigan, and coach Brian McDermott believes the teenager can prove to be a long-term asset to the Headingley club.

"Rory has been recognised by scouts as a player with outstanding potential and excelled at Wigan last season," he said.

"However, there were limited opportunities for him at Wigan and at 18 Rory will help us with our progression planning for our squad in the years ahead.

"He is a nice young man and it was great to find out that he has been a fan of the club since he was young. Although he is relatively new to rugby league, he has the base skills, like speed and elusiveness, which are great natural attributes for a young half-back."

Kettlewell added: "I am really pleased to have signed for Leeds. I have been a Leeds fan since I was six so to sign for the club is a great feeling.

"Wigan's scouts spotted me when I was at school and then kept in touch when I was at Gloucester. They invited me up for a trial last season and I really enjoyed my experience of playing rugby league. I enjoy the freedom to play and use your skills.

"My agent spoke to Leeds and I am really pleased to have signed for such a great club. Hopefully this year I can work hard on my skills and learn more about the transition from union to league.

"It is great to train alongside someone like Rob Burrow. He has done it all in the game in my position and everyone has been very welcoming."