Paper Talk: Hull KR eye Abdull, Leeds wanted McGuire back, Jones in demand
We’ve had a scan through this week’s trade newspapers.
Abdull set for Hull KR return
Hull KR have set their sights on landing London Broncos half-back Jordan Abdull for 2020, report League Weekly.
With Danny McGuire retiring at the end of this season and both playmakers Josh Drinkwater and Chris Atkin off-contract, the Robins are keen to sign Abdull to boost their halves stocks. Abdull has been linked with interest from Salford Red Devils but according to League Weekly, Hull KR are the favourites to sign the stand-off.
Leeds fail to lure McGuire back
Leeds Rhinos have tried and failed with a sensational bid to bring Danny McGuire back to the club for the final months of his playing career, report League Express.
But they still want him to return in an off-field capacity for 2020. McGuire has already confirmed that this season will be his last as a player, but League Express has revealed the Rhinos enquired with Hull KR about a sensational switch for the 36-year-old for the remainder of this season.
Wigan complete first 2020 signing
Wigan Warriors, despite not finalising yet on their coaching staff for next season, have made their first major signing for 2020 and beyond, report League Weekly.
They have completed a two-year deal with the option of an extension with Castleford Tigers prop Mitch Clark. League Weekly report the Tigers were dead keen to keep Clark at the Mend-A-Hose Jungle but once him and his agent dropped the Wigan bombshell in the middle of last week, Clark was left out of Castleford’s squad to face Hull FC on Friday.
St Helens and Wigan chase Jones
St Helens and Wigan Warriors have entered the race to sign Salford Red Devils back-rower Josh Jones, report League Express.
It was reported last week that Leeds Rhinos were among the suitors for the England Knights international, and League Express are now suggesting St Helens and Wigan are set to battle it out to secure the 25-year-old’s services for 2020 and beyond.
London capture Toronto forward
London Broncos have secured a permanent deal for the signature of Toronto Wolfpack prop Olsi Krasniqi, report League Weekly.
The 26-year-old, who was born in Albania, brings Super League experience to Danny Ward’s side, having enjoyed spells at the Broncos and Salford Red Devils prior to his move to the Wolfpack in 2018. Krasniqi had a one-month loan spell at Bradford Bulls earlier this season and wasn’t in future plans of Toronto coach Brian McDermott. League Weekly suggest the official announcement will be made this week.
Huddersfield star knocks back new deal
Huddersfield Giants forward Alex Mellor is to test his value on the open market after deciding against signing a new contract with the club for now, report League Express.
The 24-year-old is off-contract at the end of this season, and League Express understands at least one other Super League club is interested in his services should he decide to move on from Huddersfield. Mellor, who has made over 60 first-team appearances for the Giants, has knocked back the club’s initial contract offer.
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