Paul Sculthorpe has become the most expensive loose forward in British rugby league with his £370,000 move from Warrington to St Helens.

Saints agreed to hand over £300,000 in cash and part with £70,000-rated Welsh international forward Chris Morley as they completed a unique transfer double.

St Helens already possess the costliest back in Paul Newlove. He joined them in a £500,000 deal two years ago and exceeded the £250,000 Leeds paid Wigan for loose forward Ellery Hanley in 1991.

But Saints coach Shaun McRae believes the money will be well spent, with the 20-year-old set to make a lasting impression on the game.

"Paul is an outstanding young talent," said McRae. "He's only 20 but he has already a lot of experience at top level.

"If he stays level-headed and wants to improve, as I am sure he does, then there is no reason why he can't be one of the best players ever to take the field.

"At the moment, for his age, you have got to say he is one of the best players in the world."
 

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