DAVID Fifita has knocked back interest from NRL strugglers Newcastle to extend his stay with Wakefield in the English Super League.

The 27-year-old prop has signed a one-year contract extension for the 2017 season.

The Tongan international, who played in 13 of Trinity’s last 14 matches of the 2016 season after joining them on a short-term contract from Cronulla, has taken up the option of a second year at Belle Vue.

“I am really excited to get an extra year under my belt at Wakefield,” Fifita said.

Round 20

“It is a fantastic club with a great set of fans and I cannot wait to get back into pre-season and get back out there on that field to repay all of their continued support.”

David Fifita and Andrew Fifita during Cronulla training. Source: News Corp Australia

Fifita had been linked with Newcastle after he and twin brother Andrew were pictured meeting with Knights coach Nathan Brown and football manager Darren Mooney earlier in the month.

He was rumoured to be keen to return to Australia and Knights chief executive Matt Gidley expressed his interest in the former Shark.

However he shunned interest to stay in the UK.

“I am delighted that David has agreed a new contract with us, especially as I know how much this means to the Wakefield supporters,” Wakefield coach Chris Chester said.

Tonga's David Fifita attempts to bust a tackle. Source: News Corp Australia

“He is an important member of the squad who adds a lot of passion into the side with his big personality both on and off the field. I know that he has got a lot more to show us this coming year and I am looking forward to working alongside him in 2017.”

The only game Fifita missed for his new club in his 2016 was through suspension and he picked up a two-match ban for dangerous play in Wakefield’s last match of the campaign at St Helens but will be able to serve it in pre-season fixtures.