Leigh Leopards have done some terrific transfer business ahead of the 2024 season most notably signing Matt Moylan from the Cronulla Sharks in a major coup for the club.
But Leigh Leopards Director of Rugby Chris Chester was not set to stop there exploring a move for another NRL star to enhance their spine in 2024.
Tristan Sailor of the Brisbane Broncos was linked with the Leopards for a long period. They have been looking at potentially strengthening their wing and fullback positions with younger players. Currently, Leigh’s starting wingers Tom Briscoe and Josh Charnley are 33 and 32 respectively, while full-back Gareth O’Brien is also 32.
Sailor, who is only 25 years old, has been strongly linked with the club throughout the off-season. However, Leigh Leopards owner Derek Beaumont, addressed the rumours circulating about the player. In response to a post on social media that asked Beaumont to “get that captain’s hat on and announce a Sailor,” he put cold water on the rumours.
Beaumont posted: “Sailor is an NRL player and not available to sign just like some of ours who the NRL want are SL players and aren’t available to sign. Contracts need to have substance and be respected both ways. Wishing Tristan a big year in the NRL and all our players a big one in SL.”
You can read more on this statement from Beaumont here.
Following this, it has been reported by the Daily Telegraph and League Scene that the move was blocked by Brisbane Broncos due to the club being unable to secure a replacement.
Reece Walsh is their first choice option in the role but they wanted a back up to replace Sailor and couldn’t secure one.
Who is the owner of Leigh Leopards?
Hull KR v Leigh Leopards Picture by Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com – 12/08/2023 – Rugby League – Betfred Challenge Cup Final – Hull KR v Leigh Leopards – Wembley Stadium, London, England – Leigh Leopards owner Derek Beaumont. Copyright: x xSWpix.comxt/axPhotographyxHubxLtdxAllanxMcKenzie/SWpix.comx SWP-2248-0012
Derek Beaumont is the owner of the Leopards and is one of the biggest and best characters in Super League at present.
Beaumont made his fortunes through his business AB Sundecks who sponsor the 1895 Cup which Leigh won in the 2022 season as they won a treble of trophies.
Beaumont has used his money to turn Leigh into a force in Super League. His money allowed the club to sign star players like Zak Hardaker, Tom Briscoe, Lachlan Lam, Edwin Ipape, John Asiata and others who cemented Leigh as a play-off side in 2023 and lead them to Challenge Cup glory against Hull KR at Wembley.
The charismatic figure had his fingertips all over that success due to his leadership and financing.
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