Salford investment talks rumble on, as Moon leaves for Leeds
Salford are still no closer to resolving talks on a possible takeover, while centre Joel Moon has become the latest player to leave the club.
Moon, 24, has moved to Super League champions Leeds for an undisclosed fee, signing a three-year deal, after just a season at the Salford City Stadium.
Rhinos chief executive Gary Hetherington said: “We are delighted to have finalised the transfer to bring Joel Moon to Headingley Carnegie. We made no secret of the fact that we were looking to sign a centre who could complement our existing squad and add quality to our group and Joel was our preferred option.”
Moon started his career with Brisbane Broncos in 2006, before moving on to play for New Zealand Warriors for three years ahead of his switch to Super League.
He becomes the latest key player to leave Salford in recent months, following the departures of Matty Smith (Wigan), Daniel Holdsworth (Hull) and Luke Patten (retired).
The club remains in talks over a takeover, with season ticket prices yet to be announced for next season, and only one new signing made, in the shape of St Helens back-rower Andrew Dixon.
A club statement read: “The Board of Directors would like to take this opportunity to re-assure supporters, sponsors and staff that every effort is being made to bring the complex investment talks to a quick and favourable conclusion for all parties going forward and to enable the club to launch the new season effectively.
“The Board of Directors appreciates the understanding and patience of our supporters and partners during this time of uncertainty and would like to assure everyone concerned that we are doing everything we can to expedite the process and move forward to secure a progressive future for the Salford City Reds organisation.”
Last month, a winding up petition against the club was adjourned until January, amidst the news that two players – Patten and Vinnie Anderson – had joined the action, previously brought forward by a sponsor who a settlement has since been agreed with, claiming £40,000 in unpaid wages.