Manly pulled off a recruiting coup on Tuesday by stealing promising young junior Tony Williams from Parramatta on a three-year deal.

The under 20s star is described by Manly's recruitment manager Noel Cleal as a "Frank Pritchard" type player and a future star of the NRL.

"This kid is all power and an explosive player who can play centre but is probably going to make his mark as a back rower playing on the edge as he matures," said Cleal.

"We are delighted he has chosen to join us - a half a dozen clubs were chasing his signature."

At 193cms and 106 kg, Williams is a giant of a young man and a talented goal kicker with an 80 per cent success rate.

Manly chief executive Grant Mayer said Williams signing was a major investment in the future.

"Williams is an elite youngster with an exciting future - it's a credit to our coaching and recruitment group that they can attract a young player with his ability to the club," said Mayer.

"Coming on top of the signing last week of Newcastle Knights five-eighth Chris Bailey it has been an excellent week off the field for the club."

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP