NRL: Warriors close to hooking another Shark

Chad Townsen. Photo /Getty Images

The Warriors have already added one Cronulla player to their roster for next year and are on the verge of singing another in halfback Chad Townsend.

The 22-year-old is off contract with the Sharks at the end of the year but has had limited playing opportunities behind Jeff Robson and Todd Carney, who recently signed a new five-year deal with the club after knocking back offers from the Warriors and Panthers.

Townsend has played in only two games this year and 16 in total since his debut against the Broncos in 2011.

He made an impression as a youngster, winning seven titles with the Yarrawarrah Tigers growing up and he also captained the Junior Kangaroos in 2011 and represented New South Wales under-18s.

Townsend looks set to join Sharks teammate Jayson Bukuya at Mt Smart next season after the second-rower recently signed a two-year deal with the Warriors.

Townsend would provide backup and competition to Shaun Johnson and Thomas Leuluai in the halves and youngster Harry Siejka is also pushing for inclusion. Leuluai is an option at hooker, especially with both Nathan Friend and Pita Godinet off contract at the end of the season.