LEEDS Rhinos have signed York City Knights teenager Toby Warren on a four-year deal which will keep him at Headingley Stadium until the end of 2026.

Warren joined York in May last year after progressing through the club’s Excel programme and has since made five appearances.

The back-rower signed for the Knights on a deal until the end of the 2023 and The Press understands that Leeds have paid York a compensation fee for the former Heworth and New Earswick All Blacks amateur.

York head coach James Ford said: “We’ve obviously got mixed feelings but, firstly, we’re really pleased for him. It’s great that his hard work and commitment to improving has been rewarded on numerous levels.

“He made his debut for his hometown club, he’s played at Reserve and Academy level for Leeds this year as well as representing Yorkshire Academy, earning a transfer to one of the biggest clubs in the country.

“I’m delighted for Toby and his family because of the opportunity that he now has in front of him.

“I’m pleased that this move reinforces that there is a pathway to the top for young talent in York and North Yorkshire to fulfil their ambitions.

“I’m sure that this will be a shot in the arm for the club to ensure the retention of our young players.

“There is also a touch of disappointment that we, at York, are losing one of our best young players.

“We identified him, developed him and put a lot of time and effort into his development. He was central to our short, medium and long-term plans.

“That said, he goes with our blessing. Both clubs came to an agreement and I’m sure I speak for everybody associated with the club when I say that we are all really excited to see Toby Warren play for Leeds Rhinos at Headingley in front of 10-15,000 people.”

Warren himself added: “I am really excited about the future and the opportunity to join one of the biggest clubs in world rugby.

“I have really enjoyed the time I have spent on loan here over the last two years and it was always a club I wanted to be part of in the future.

“The lads are all great here and the coaches have really helped me.

“I will always be grateful to the Knights for the help they have given me. They took me down when I was a young kid who didn’t know too much about the game and allowed me to have the opportunity to come to the Rhinos and progress my game.

"The Championship is a great competition. I have been fortunate to play a few games in the Championship and it is a great way for young players to get into the professional game.

“I am thankful for the opportunity James Ford and York gave me.”

Leeds head coach Rohan Smith said: “We are delighted to have secured Toby on a long-term deal. I would like to thank York for their support of Toby.

“He is a player with real potential and I am looking forward to seeing how he develops over the next few years.

“He is aware that he has a lot of work still to do but he has a great attitude and willingness to learn.”