League Latest: Barba linked with Leigh, Hardaker claims Wigan strongest side & Hull’s transfer business unfinished

League Latest – keeping you up to date with the latest news from the world of rugby league.

Here are some of the headline-grabbing stories from the last 24 hours.

Barba linked with Leigh

In what would be a sensational turn of events, former Man of Steel Ben Barba is rumoured to be the promoted side’s marquee signing for 2021, according to CKM Red Rugby League.

Hodgson gives recruitment update

Hull FC boss Brett Hodgson has refused to rule out more signings. According to the Hull Daily Mail, the 42-year-old is keen to add a prop and outside back, but he won’t rush into anything.

Patton departure confirmed

Long-serving player Dec Patton is on his way out of Warrington. The 25-year-old, who has over 100 appearances to his name, had a deal that expired in November last year, but it hasn’t been renewed as the Warrington Guardian reports.

Bateman recalls strict Australia bubble

John Bateman is back in England and Super League, but straight into lockdown life. That, however, is nothing compared to the stringent restrictions players faced Down Under, as he reveals all to the Daily Mirror.

Hardaker claims Wigan have ‘strongest squad’

Zak Hardaker has laid out a bold claim in pre-season that the Warriors have the strongest squad on paper. In an interview with Wigan Today, the fullback-turned-centre stressed that the Grand Final loss will fuel the fire in 2021.

Cas promote youngsters

Castleford youngsters Cain Robb, Brad Martin and Brad Graham have all put pen to paper on deals that will take them through the first-team in 2021 as reported by the club’s official site.

Newman on the road to recovery

After suffering a double leg break in 2020, Harry Newman is well on the way to recovery. The centre did a special interview on the Leeds website, having taken to the training field for the first time this week since the horrific injury.

Haggerty joins Leigh staff

Former Leigh Centurions player Kurt Haggerty has joined the club’s coaching staff, the club’s official Facebook page has confirmed. He moves after being part of the Toronto Wolfpack setup since retiring in 2016.

Dream Team odds released

Serious About Rugby League revealed the Super League Dream Team odds, with last year’s Man of Steel Paul McShane at 7/2 to take the hooker’s spot.

Bienek hoping for new lease of life at Castleford

After impressing with London as a youngster, Lewis Bienek joined Hull FC, but the move didn’t exactly go to plan with the rampaging forward making just eight appearances in a two-year spell. In an interview with the Yorkshire Post, however, he expressed his confidence that the move to the Tigers can kickstart his career.