Off the Record: Rugby League Rumours and Gossip #117
The rumour mill has been in overdrive after a busy week in rugby league.
St Helens star Swift in demand
Love Rugby League understands that a number of Super League clubs interested in taking St Helens winger or centre Adam Swift on loan.
The 25-year-old has found chances hard to come by in Justin Holbrook’s side this year due to the impressive performances of Tommy Makinson and Regan Grace, being limited to just seven appearances in Super League.
He has even played a number of games for Championship side Sheffield Eagles on dual-registration this term. It is believed that Widnes Vikings, Huddersfield Giants and Salford Red Devils have enquired about his availability.
Winder set for Wigan job
It has been reported that Wigan Warriors’ assistant coach John Winder will take over the reins from head coach Shaun Wane for the 2019 campaign.
Speculation has cooled on Shaun Edwards coming to the club ahead of next season because he is keen on staying with Wales Rugby Union until after next year’s Rugby Union World Cup. It is believed that Winder will take on the head coaching role in 2019, with Edwards joining the staff in 2020.
Casty to stay at Catalans
There have been a lot of reports linking France international Rémi Casty away from Catalans Dragons at the end of the year, but Love Rugby League understands that he will stay at the club.
The 33-year-old has spent 13 years at the club, making over 250 appearances for the French outfit. He spent the 2014 season in the NRL with Sydney Roosters, playing 12 games. Casty is highly regarded at Catalans it is believed that the club are keen to extend his current deal so he will see out his career with the club.
Hastings to Huddersfield on cards
Huddersfield Giants are close to agreeing a deal for Manly Sea Eagles half-back Jackson Hastings.
The 22-year-old is out-of-favour at the Sea Eagles after falling out with captain Daly Cherry-Evans. He has made 47 appearances in total for Sydney Roosters and Manly, kicking 34 goals. It is understood that Hastings will join the Giants on a contract until the end of the season.
Leeds eyeing Austin
Leeds Rhinos are linked with Canberra Raiders half-back Blake Austin for next season.
The 27-year-old has scored 38 tries in just over 100 NRL appearances in total for Penrith Panthers, Wests Tigers and Canberra. He has been in and out of the team at the Raiders and could be tempted by a move to Super League. Leeds are believed to be interested in the Portugal international.
Warrington keen on Championship star
Warrington Wolves are interested in signing London Broncos back-rower Matt Davies on a long-term contract.
If the deal gets finalised, the 21-year-old will once again work under ex-London coach Andrew Henderson, who is currently the assistant at Warrington. Davies has played over 40 games for the Broncos since making his debut in 2015.