Could Leeds Rhinos boss Rohan Smith make these three surprise signings?

May 1st has come and gone and now out-of-contract stars are able to talk and negotiate with other clubs.

That, of course, sends the rumour mill into overdrive with anybody and anyone linked at this time of year.

But, for Leeds Rhinos, who may be on Rohan Smith’s radar going into 2023?

Ricky Leutele – Huddersfield Giants

One of the most devastating centres in Super League, Ricky Leutele has it all in his locker. With the ability to take defenders with him over the line and with a hard-hitting shoulder in defence, Leutele would more than shore up the Leeds defence out wide. Plus, his experience could be key in guiding young players like Max Simpson. Having said that, Huddersfield boss Ian Watson is determined to keep hold of the former Cronulla Sharks centre though he admit recently that there is a little bit of ‘frustration’ kicking in in trying to get the deal over the line.

Guy Armitage – Toulouse Olympique

One out of left field perhaps, but Guy Armitage has taken to Super League like a duck to water following his move to Toulouse Olympique after a spell in London and in rugby union. A remarkable offloader of the ball, the 30-year-old centre should have no shortage of suitors after excelling in the south of France.

Jai Whitbread – Wakefield Trinity

Forward Jai Whitbread has excelled in 2022 with Wakefield Trinity after making the move from Leigh Centurions ahead of the 2022 season. A real handful down the middle, the Australian almost always beats the first man in the defensive line, getting his Wakefield team on the front foot which is no mean feat considering the lightweight nature of much of the Trinity pack. Whitbread is still only 24 too, and, with some good NRL experience under his belt, could bring a hell of a lot to the Leeds go forward.