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London Broncos signing explains move after leaving community club ‘gutted’

London Broncos signing Luke Polselli has explained his move to the capital club which saw him reject a deal with another club.

Italy international Polselli signed with London earlier this week in a move that makes him the latest Australian-Italian at the club following the likes of Ethan Natoli, Dean Parata and Jack Campagnolo.

All three of Natoli, Parata and Campagnolo left the Broncos following their relegation from Super League but Polselli did reveal that he had spoken with the trio, particularly Campagnolo, regarding his move to London.

Whilst it’s a major move for London as they look to build out their spine after losing stars such as Oli Leyland and Josh Rourke to Super League sides, it’s a major blow for one of rugby league’s major community clubs.

Rochdale Mayfield have confirmed that they are “gutted” about Polselli’s move to London with Mayfield having previously agreed to the Italy international representing them in 2025.

Taking to X after London’s announcement, Mayfield posted: “Massive congratulations to Luke Polselli on signing professional terms (with) London Broncos.

“Although we’re gutted that we didn’t get to see him don a club jersey, it’s great news and an opportunity that we couldn’t stand in the way of. Enjoy the journey Luke!”

How London Broncos signed Italy international

Polselli has now been on media duties with his new club and explained that it was a whirlwind move upon deciding to join London, something he explained when speaking on the Broncos’ YouTube channel.

“About a week ago I made the decision to come and it’s been full steam ahead since then,” he said before confirming that he has now acquired his visa to play professionally.

On why he signed with London, he explained: “To be honest, I’ve been in touch with Mike (Eccles) for some time now. I’ve always talked to other people who have been here, especially at this club like Dean Parata.

“Some of those boys have been trying to get me over so I finally bit the bullet and came here.”

Asked if he had spoken with any of those Australian-Italians at London such as Parata, Polselli confirmed that it was actually Jack Campagnolo who advised him on the decision.

He confirmed: “I did, I spoke to Campo (Jack Campagnolo) before I got here and asked what the club was about and the boys here. He said the boys that stayed are top blokes and they have been.

“They all said that Mike is a good coach and that he trains hard so everything was good that I heard.”

Polselli can play in a number of positions but did represent Italy at full-back in the 2022 World Cup, however, he does not expect to usurp long-standing number one Alex Walker – something he noted when speaking about what he expects his role to be.

He said: “I’m not quite sure, we haven’t said much exactly but I think I’ll play that half role or utility role, wherever he needs me really. I know we’ve got a strong full-back with Alex so I’ll probably be slipping into that six role.”

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