Off the Record: Rugby League Rumours and Gossip #120
There are a number of potential transfers from Super League to the NRL, while there could be one New Zealand star making his way over to the UK.
Luke could make Super League switch
New Zealand star Issac Luke could well make a move to Super League in the off-season.
The 31-year-old has been in sensational form in the NRL this season for New Zealand Warriors, but it is understood that the Auckland club will not offer him a new deal when his contract expires at the end of the season due to him being below average in his first two years. Four Super League clubs are believed to be interested in the hooker.
Bateman off to Canberra
John Bateman’s move from Wigan Warriors to Canberra Raiders is set to be confirmed within the coming weeks.
The England star has penned a three-year contract with the Raiders and will make the move over with Wigan team-mate Ryan Sutton in the off-season. Bateman will also link up with fellow England internationals Josh Hodgson and Elliott Whitehead.
Rimmer set for RFL job
Ralph Rimmer is set to be given the Rugby Football League’s chief executive role on a permanent basis.
The former Sheffield Eagles and Huddersfield Giants chief has been with the governing body since 2010 and has been in charge on an interim basis since the departure of Nigel Wood.
Brown future hangs in balance
Kevin Brown’s future at Warrington Wolves is up in the air, with him yet to sign a new contract.
The former England international turns 34 in October but he has openly said that he wants to play on, preferably at Warrington. Blake Austin will arrive at Warrington for next year and Declan Patton has recently signed a new deal, so could Brown be on his way out? Highly rated youngster Morgan Smith is also waiting for a chance at the Wolves.
Moon to leave for NRL
Joel Moon will end his Super League career with Leeds Rhinos when the 2018 season comes to a close ahead of a move to the NRL.
The centre or half-back is attracting interest from at least five NRL clubs at the moment and it is believed that Newcastle Knights are the favourites to sign him. Moon has been at the Rhinos since 2013 and has made over 150 appearances for the club.
Briscoe will join Leeds permanently
Featherstone Rovers star Luke Briscoe is set to join Leeds Rhinos on a permanent deal from the 2019 season.
Last month, the prolific winger joined the Rhinos on a loan deal until the end of the season, but it is understood that Leeds are keen to make the move permanent. Briscoe equalled a consecutive try-scoring record this year after scoring in 17 games on the bounce for Rovers to equal Eric Harris’ accolade from 1937.