In the first Challenge Cup Final without Leeds Rhinos, Wigan Warriors, Warrington Wolves and St Helens since 1986, Leigh Leopards defeated Hull KR at Wembley to lift a first Challenge Cup trophy since 1971.

Leigh are hoping that this becomes a regular occurrence as they strive to put the means in place to be a constant threat at the top of the Betfred Super League.

They have taken massive steps towards doing so making some huge signings who have fired the Leopards to that Challenge Cup Final glory and fourth in the league.

It seems that the Leopards could make some more major signings ahead of 2024 or at the very least one more.

You would have to say that Leigh’s pursuits have been less fruitful than a year ago unfortunately for the club. They have missed out on Brodie Croft, Ryan Brierley and Anthony Milford as well as Leeds Rhinos winger Derrell Olpherts.

But it is understood that the Leopards are still in the transfer market ahead of the 2024 Super League season for one player in particular – a stand off to replace Ben Reynolds.

The Leopards have signed Ben McNamara and already have Joe Mellor on their books but are keen on adding to their ranks in this position.

They still have potential targets they could move for such as the NRL’s Tom Dearden. He is set to leave North Queensland Cowboys ahead of the 2024 season. One ship that has sailed is that of Blake Austin who has returned to Australia.

The club are certainly ambitious and that is routinely underpinned by owner Derek Beaumont. Earlier this year, when asked if he had something big planned on Sky Sports in terms of transfers, Beaumont smiled and revealed that Chris Chester has the backing and money to make the signings the club needs.

The club’s success has been underpinned by the funding of Derek Beaumont who has funded plenty of major signings lately.

Beaumont has shown on many occasions that he could be one of the best owners in rugby league and has shown that again getting involved with local club Leigh Miners and their youth teams.

He has sponsored their new kit with a sleeve patch on kits across the club.

He said on social media: “AB Sundecks Ltd will take a sleeve patch on every team boys and girls throughout the whole age range please contact accounts@absundecks.co.uk proud to be able to support grass roots RL the lifeblood of our game as much as we are a prestigious competition and elite level SL club.”