WARRINGTON Wolves chief executive Karl Fitzpatrick admits reports linking Ben Murdoch-Masila with a move back to the NRL do not come as a surprise.

Following the Wire second rower's impressive display for the Tongan Invitational XIII against Australia on Saturday – he made a team-high 28 tackles and played 71 minutes in a stunning 16-12 win – the Australian media are reporting clubs Down Under are keen on his services.

Indeed, the 28-year-old's manager Mario Tartak is quoted in one report saying he had already received approaches from two NRL sides and is expecting more.

Murdoch-Masila is entering the final year of his contract with The Wire and Fitzpatrick is hopeful he will honour it.

However, after catching the eye against the world champions, the turning of the rumour mill was not unexpected for him.

"Ben's contracted until the end of 2020 and is very much part of our long-term plans," he said.

"He and his wife Roxy, who is captain of our women's team, are very much enjoying their time in Warrington.

"However, I'm not surprised he's attracting interest from the NRL after his performance against Australia. He was one of the best players on the pitch."

Murdoch-Masila has made 54 appearances for Warrington since joining from Salford Red Devils ahead of the 2018 campaign and scored a try in their Challenge Cup Final victory over St Helens earlier this year.