Five clubs who should go all out to sign George Williams

With the news that George Williams has left Canberra with immediate effect to return home to the UK, the rumour mill is in overdrive about where the halfback will play the rest of 2021 and beyond. But, which five clubs should go all out to sign him?

Wigan Warriors

The most obvious choice would be for Williams to return to Wigan given that they have first refusal on his signature. With Jackson Hastings on his way out at the end of the season and Tommy Leuluai on the brink of retirement, Williams seems a superb replacement for either, plus he knows the ins and outs of the club having come through the academy system. This transfer would probably make the most sense.

Warrington Wolves

They don’t really need a halfback this year considering the form of Gareth Widdop and Blake Austin, but with the future of both up in the air, Williams’ signature could not come quick enough. With new boss Daryl Powell coming in 2022, he may have the final say, but who wouldn’t want the English international in their side? It could leave a bitter taste in Wigan’s mouths considering the rivalry between the two, but Williams probably wouldn’t be too concerned. The 26-year-old could be the difference between losing out on silverware once more and lifting some.

Leeds Rhinos

Perhaps the side most in need of a halfback is Leeds. With Rob Lui sidelined, Kyle Eastmond retired and Liam Sutcliffe struggling in the halves, the Rhinos desperately require someone to partner Luke Gale. If Leeds could pull off the Williams signing then it’s likely that all their creativity problems would be solved. Could Gary Hetherington make it happen? It remains to be seen whether boss Richard Agar would even be in for him, but it would be stupid to rule the West Yorkshire side out.

Leigh Centurions

Let’s be honest, Leigh are in dire straits. With no wins from their opening six Super League games, the Centurions are at risk of being cast adrift at the bottom of the table. Outspoken owner Derek Beaumont isn’t afraid to splash the cash, but it would take a major package for Williams to join a club not challenging for silverware and one which is in grave danger of being relegated. Stranger things have happened.

Huddersfield Giants

With Aidan Sezer and Lee Gaskell reportedly on the move at the end of the season, Giants boss Ian Watson will be keen to recruit some talismanic halfbacks. Jack Cogger will be staying and Theo Fages is rumoured to have signed for Huddersfield on a deal starting in 2022. However, George Williams would undoubtedly be one of the biggest coups the club has ever pulled off and one which would surely propel the Giants into silverware contenders. Owner Ken Davy – if given the green light by Watson – would throw the kitchen sink at Williams, it would just be a case of whether the halfback would pull the plug.