NRL side told to pursue three Super League stars to address big problem

Reports recently emerged that Leeds Rhinos are interested in signing NRL halfback Luke Brooks from the Wests Tigers.

Both of Leeds’ current halfbacks are coming to the ends of their deals and thus there is a degree of uncertainty about the position heading into 2024.

The pair due have plenty of history together playing alongside each other at Canberra Raiders when they finished in the top three of the NRL in 2016.

Both have been Man of Steel nominees during their time in Super League with Warrington Wolves and Huddersfield Giants respectively and have five Man of Steel points this season.

Thus, according to the Mole of Wide World of Sports, the Rhinos are interested in 28 year old Luke Brooks.

He is coming to the end of his deal but is yet to agree a deal to stay at the club despite the fact they let former Wigan Warriors and Salford Red Devils halfback join Newcastle Knights ahead of the new season.

Whether he comes to Headingley or not, his future is certainly in doubt. Even if he stays it is suggested he will become more of a stand-off and a halfback will be brought in to replace him.

Australian publication Zero Tackle have therefore pieced together a 10 man short list for the Tigers.

Legendary halfback Shaun Johnson is named as is former Hull FC and Leeds target Kyle Flanagan.

But three Super League stars have been included.

In eighth place on the list is former Tiger and Huddersfield Giants star fullback Tui Lolohea. If he and Will Pryce left at the end of 2023 that would be a killer blow.

Meanwhile, young Arthur Mourgue of the Catalans Dragons has been rated as their sixth best “realistic” option instead of teammate Mitchell Pearce who the Tigers approached.

But the third most realistic option according to Zerotcakle is Leeds star Aidan Sezer begging the question could he and Luke Brooks swap clubs at the end of this season?

It is up to former Hull KR boss Tim Sheens to decide what the Tigers do.