Wigan Warriors full-back Sam Tomkins has revealed that it was a difficult decision for him to sign a deal with New Zealand Warriors for next season.

The 24-year-old England international penned a three-year contract with the National Rugby League club on Monday for what is believed to be a world-record fee.

"This has been a very difficult decision to make but it is now perfect timing for me to make the switch to the NRL," Tomkins told Wigan's official website.

"It is something in my career I have always wanted to do and this agreement with the Warriors also allows me to return back to Wigan in the future. Going to Auckland is a huge step for me and my rugby league career but one I am really looking forward to.

"Before that, though, I want to end my time with further success with Wigan as we aim for Grand Final glory and then with England as we focus on winning the World Cup on home soil."

Tomkins had been linked with a cross-code move to rugby union before agreeing a deal with New Zealand Warriors.