Storm sign Kiwis sevens player after Warbrick success

Moses Leo is following the same path as former New Zealand Olympic sevens star Will Warbrick, switching codes and countries to play NRL with the Melbourne Storm.

Fresh off the Paris Olympics where the Kiwis missed the medals, Leo has signed a two-year deal with the minor premiers, although he won't link with the club before the 2026 season due to his NZRU contract.

Storm director of football Frank Ponissi said the club had been impressed with Leo's enthusiasm to test himself in rugby league.

"We're very impressed with Moses's qualities and the strong desire he has to test his skills in rugby league," Ponissi said.

"Although we won't get to see him until November next year, signing Moses is a look to the future.

"It's important we continue to build our list, especially with the prospect of new teams joining the competition."

The 27-year-old also plays 15-a-side in New Zealand's National Provincial Championship club with North Harbour as a winger although the Storm believe he could play in the centres or at fullback.

Warbrick was part of New Zealand's silver medal-winning outfit at the Tokyo Olympics before making the switch from sevens to rugby league.

With injuries contributing he made a slow transition, spending 2022 playing for the Sunshine Coast Falcons in the Queensland Cup.

He made his debut in the opening round of the 2023 season and he has now developed into one of the best finishers in the game.

When Leo's name was first attached to Melbourne, Warbrick backed his countryman to succeed in the NRL.

The 27-year-old, who won Commonwealth Games bronze in 2022, ticks similar boxes to Warbrick as a tall, physically strong athlete.

"He's a dynamic guy, a great athlete, got great speed and skill. He's got a good offload and good footwork so he's a damaging runner," Warbrick said.

"If you've got those traits, I'm sure you'll do well in the NRL. I can't compare him to anyone but he's a talent."

The Storm ace believed Leo would also fit in off the field.

"I know Moses quite well," Warbrick said.

"He's got a great work ethic, a great talent - personally I think he'll excel here. He'll fit in and that's the main thing."

Leo will add some depth to Melbourne's outside backs following the departure of Justin Olam, Reimis Smith and George Jennings across the past 12 months.