Yesterday, a host of players hit the NRL’s open market as those without a deal beyond the end of next season became available to for rival teams to approach.
England stars Herbie Farnworth and Dom Young are among those now on the market, with suitors in Australia preparing big offers to tempt them away from their current clubs.
While Farnworth and Young are superstars in the prime of their careers, there are others who may now be worried about their futures beyond the 2023 season, and for some of those who have hit the NRL open market, a move overseas will be an option.
With that in mind, we take a look at five players who could potentially make the move across to the Northern Hemisphere for a stint in Super League.
Tariq Sims
Sims has been linked with a move to Super League for a couple of years, after his older brothers Ashton and Korbin made the move in 2015 and 2021 respectively. Sims has signed a one-year deal with Melbourne for next season, but his future beyond that is uncertain and he may be keen to follow in his sibling’s footsteps.
Oliver Gildart
The only Englishman in this list, Gildart made the move to Wests Tigers at the start of 2022 but has had a season of ups and downs. After a short loan spell at the Sydney Roosters, the centre has signed a one-year deal with the newly formed Dolphins side. Like Sims, his future in 2024 is up for debate and we could very well see the 26-year-old return to Super League where he has already made over 140 appearances.
Sione Katoa
Tongan international winger Sione Katoa has been at the Cronulla Sharks since 2018. He has made over 60 appearances and scored over 45 tries. The 26-year-old’s contract is up at the end of next season and he would be a great asset for any Super League side.
Kyle Flanagan
Flanagan’s name has been in and around the Super League rumour mill for what seems like forever. The halfback has over 60 NRL games of experience and could emulate the likes of Jackson Hastings and Brodie Croft in coming over to Super League at a young age and revitalising his career.
Adam Doueihi
Currently over in the UK for the World Cup with Lebanon. Fullback Doueihi could be more of a frequent player in English stadiums should he move when his contract expires in 2023. He could be an incredible pickup for Leeds for example, with Richie Myler reaching the end of his career and Luke Hooley still developing.