Rugby Australia fail in attempt to lure 16-year-old prodigy from NRL

The Sydney Roosters appear to have locked in Cooper Cronk's successor with the Tri-Colours set to unveil teen sensation Sam Walker.

Walker was the most sought after youngster in the NRL and was courted by several clubs and Rugby Australia but it's understood he has penned a two-year deal with the Roosters.

The 16-year-old was on a development deal with Brisbane however the Broncos let the talented playmaker slip through their fingers.

He has been touted as the most gifted player to emerge since Kalyn Ponga and will be eligible to play first-grade midway through next year.

He last week guided the Queensland under-18s to a win over NSW in a State of Origin curtain-raiser at Suncorp Stadium.

He recently met with Roosters coach Trent Robinson and Luke Keary, who he looks set to partner in the halves when Cronk retires at the end of 2019.

"It was really good to sit down and learn. Trent Robinson is the first head (NRL) coach to speak to me about the way I play and I picked up little tips," Walker told QRL.com earlier in the month.

"Trent is the best coach in the NRL at the moment and it is good to hear from the best. I’ve only ever had my dad and uncle (Shane) correct my game and encourage me how to play, so it was really good to hear his thoughts on how I can become a better player, because I am always learning at the moment.

"I am turning 17 very soon and I know I need to get better and improve."

AAP

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