Leigh Leopards did a brilliant job to retain much of their talent after the 2023 season but reports down under now suggest that they will have to fight to keep captain John Asiata.
Asiata was arguably in the Man of Steel conversation at times last year with the ball-playing loose forward being among Super League’s best, and certainly a player that helped Leigh Leopards to their immense season.
Back in Super League the Leopards recorded their highest-ever finish of fifth and lifted the Challenge Cup, and there was a noticeable drop in form late in the season when Asiata was absent.
Reports last season that NRL clubs were interested in the Leigh Leopards captain were batted away by Derek Beaumont who issued a ‘hands-off’ warning via social media.
One of those who reported that Asiata could return was The Mole, Beaumont having famously offered him a bet that Asiata would remain as a Leopard.
Despite not taking the bet, The Mole has once again reported that NRL clubs circle for the Leigh Leopards star.
Leigh Leopards possibly set to fend off three NRL clubs to keep captain
Writing for Wide World Of Sports, The Mole has reported that NRL clubs are circling with Asiata set to be out of contract at the end of the season.
Apparently, three NRL clubs are showing interest, per The Mole, which could make it very hard for the Leopards to keep hold of their captain.
The 30-year-old has been immense for Leigh Leopards but the pull of the NRL is undeniable and should he return then he will add to his 138 appearances.
Talk of Asiata leaving the Leopards could well get owner Derek Beaumont fired up again, just like last year when he got into a spat on Twitter with The Mole.
Beaumont posted: “John is contracted and I wouldn’t accept a million quid for him. Anyone reading anything around players leaving I can guarantee you it will be nonsense as nobody is for sale!”
He even doubled down and offered a bet of £1 million, which was rejected, but these new reports could see that social spat begin once again.
Leigh Leopards will be in action this week after missing Round Two due to Wigan’s involvement in the World Club Challenge, the Leopards set to take on St Helens on Friday night.
The club have recently had to bring in Brad Dwyer on loan due to an injury to star hooker Edwin Ipape. Ex-Hull FC man Dwyer could debut on Friday night.
