Leeds Rhinos could be set to rethink their main transfer target after NRL prop Royce Hunt has picked up a long-term injury.
Hunt, who currently plays for Wests Tigers and has featured in every game so far this season, has undergone surgery on a pectoral muscle and is likely to miss the rest of the season.
The 30-year-old is set for a four-month lay-off, taking him to early October. As well as missing the NRL season, it could also mean that Hunt misses out on selection for the Rugby League World Cup, where he was expected to be in contention for a spot in the Samoa side.
After rumours circled that Leeds were interested, Brad Arthur revealed to the press that the club were “aware” of his name, and was in talks with him and a few other players from down under in a potential move to Headingley.
With the prop now out for the season, the Rhinos could be looking at other options, as the side aim to replace outgoing forwards Mikolaj Oledzki, James McDonnell and Cameron Smith with similar quality.
Hunt is under contract with Wests until the end of next year; however, with Benji Marshall’s side looking to create space on the salary cap, his injury could have come at a crucial point in his career.
Brad Arthur commits to Leeds Rhinos, Hull KR lose back-to-back and Captain’s Challenge rule debated – Click here to listen to this week’s episode of the Serious About Rugby League Show
