The complex [eta(3)-methallyl-nickel-dad]PF6 is a new catalyst precursor for ethylene polymerization. The system is active in the presence of usual organoaluminium compounds like diethylaluminium chloride, at low Al/Ni ratios and under mild reaction conditions (temperatures between -10 degrees C and 25 degrees C, ethylene partial pressure from 1 to 15 atm). The polymers show extensive methyl branching, whose content is controlled by reaction parameters like temperature and ethylene pressure.