Iziq Foa’i admits he feels “so close” to realising his dream of becoming a professional rugby league player following a successful trial with Super League side Warrington Wolves.

The uniquely gifted New Zealander, who combines a battering ram physical presence with feather-touch handling skills, is heading back to the UK to chase a professional career in league.

The club have offered him a chance to join up with their Under-19s team to finish the 2015 season in the north west of England.

Although the future remains uncertain, with the 19-year-old using university and a degree in sports marketing or management as a secondary option should his rugby dream not come true, Foa’i is driven by positive comments from Wolves’ head coach Tony Smith and club legend Lee Briers, both of whom spoke glowingly of the teenager during his trial.

“The club offered me the chance to come back after my exams, they’re keen to have me for the rest of the U-19’s season,” said Foa’i, whose absence will be a big miss for Abu Dhabi Harlequins this season.

“My ultimate goal is a first team contract and a career in rugby league.”

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This was the latest in a series of trips to the UK the Kiwi has made over the last few years, having trained previously with Harlequins and St Helens, but Foa’i believes his Warrington trial was “make or break”.

“This is the closest I’ve come to going pro,” said Foa’i.

“I heard lots of positive things from the coaches. They were really impressed so that’s a big thing for me.”

"I’m determined to grab this opportunity with both hands and will try to make the most of it. I really want this to happen, it feels so close.”