King was linked with a number of Super League sides

The 26-year-old New South Wales star and Australia international has signed a four-year deal with the club.

"I had to weigh up a lot of things before I made the decision," King said.

Melbourne chief executive Brian Waldron said it was impossible for the club to keep King, who had a year to run on his contract but had a get-out clause.

606: DEBATE What do the Wire fans think about this signing? WC

"It's a decision we're obviously disappointed about but we completely understand," he said.

King added: "My decision was based on taking on loads of advice from the likes of Andrew Johns and David Kidwell who have both played for the club and they could not speak highly enough of the set-up and the Warrington area.

"Also my good mate Mike Sullivan is currently playing with the club and he gave me advice as well.

"So I took on board all this advice and made the decision to come to Warrington.

"It is an awesome opportunity to play in another part of the world in another competition playing the game that you love."

Wigan, Hull KR and Bradford were all believed to have been interested in signing King but Warrington coach Paul Cullen was pleased delighted to secure King's signature.

"Matt is a world class international, who will delight the Warrington faithful for years to come," he said.

The Wolves have already signed Manly Sea Eagles backs Michael Monaghan and Chris Hicks and New Zealand Warriors forward Louis Anderson for next season.