Knights confirm signing of Cowboys young gun Ponga

North Queensland Cowboys youngster Kalyn Ponga is set to become a Newcastle player after the Knights officially confirmed the teen’s signing on Monday.

The 18-year-old fullback, who has only played two NRL matches, has agreed to a four-year deal with the Knights, starting in 2018.

"There is no doubt Kalyn is a very talented and exciting young player and his signing is definitely a coup for the club," Knights coach Nathan Brown said.

"We look forward to further developing his talent and welcoming his family to Newcastle."

While the lucrative deal for one of the game’s hottest young prospects doesn’t kick in until 2018, Knights CEO Matt Gidley says the club hasn’t given up hope of landing him for next season.

"As it stands, we are excited about Kalyn joining us in 2018," Gidley said.

"Should the Cowboys decide to release Kalyn before the conclusion of his contract, we would certainly welcome him to the club at an earlier date."

Further details of the deal have not been released, but it has previously been reported the 18-year-old will command more than $700,000 a season.