Off the Record: Rugby League Rumours and Gossip #135
Where is Rhys Evans off to? Who is the latest coach linked with Widnes? Which back-rower are Salford and Huddersfield looking at? Find out more in Ray Mour’s gossip column.
Evans attracting interest
Leigh Centurions outside-back Rhys Evans is attracting plenty of interest from several Super League clubs, Love Rugby League understands.
The 25-year-old joined the Championship side on a three-year deal ahead of the 2018 season, but the Centurions are looking to sell Evans because of the financial rut the club finds itself in. It is believed that at least four clubs in Super League have shown an interest in the Wales international, who can play at centre or wing.
Morgan shown the door
Ryan Morgan has been told that he is allowed to leave St Helens if another club come approach him.
The Australian has been offered to a number of clubs in Super League and the NRL in recent weeks. Morgan has scored 24 tries in 49 games for Saints since joining from Melbourne Storm ahead of 2017. Saints’ starting centres for 2019 are expected to be Kevin Naiqama and Mark Percival.
It is understood that Morgan would prefer a move back home to Australia, but he would be open to staying in England if the right offer came along.
Widnes edge towards Purtill
Leigh Centurions’ current coach Kieron Purtill could well be the Widnes Vikings head coach in 2019, Love Rugby League understands.
The future at Leigh remains unclear for all staff at the moment, including Purtill. The 41-year-old did a fine job at the Centurions when he took over from Neil Jukes early on in the season, but it wasn’t enough to guide them to a place in The Qualifiers.
Love Rugby League understands that Widnes and Purtill have been in contact over the vacant coaching role at the Vikings.
Salford and Huddersfield linked with Clarkson
Salford Red Devils and Huddersfield Giants are chasing the signature of current free agent Chris Clarkson.
Clarkson, 28, was released by Hull Kingston Rovers at the end of the season after spending three seasons at the club, making 80 appearances.
With the former England Knights international being a free agent, clubs would not have to pay a transfer fee for the back-rower and it is understood that Salford and Huddersfield are both considering moves for him.
Leigh sniffing around Swinton
Leigh Centurions have enquired about signing a number of players from Swinton Lions for 2019, Love Rugby League understands.
The Centurions recently failed in their attempts to sign half-back Jack Hansen, who decided to sign a new deal with the Lions. It is believed that Hansen isn’t the only Swinton player trying to be signed by Leigh for 2019.
Chisholm staying at Bradford
Dane Chisholm is on the verge of signing a new contract with Bradford Bulls for their Championship campaign in 2019.
The 28-year-old is currently out-of-contract after his deal with the Bulls expired but he is set to sign a new deal with the club.
A former France international, Chisholm played a key role in helping Bradford gain promotion back to the Championship at the first time of asking this year. He is a fan favourite at Odsal and is set to stay.