In one of the biggest shocks of the season, Leeds Rhinos centre Nene MacDonald has joined Salford Red Devils for next year.
MacDonald left Leeds on the back of a controversial time spent in Australia.
He was granted time in Australia for the birth of his son but failed to return leading to his release.
It was believed he would stay in Australia but because of Krisnan Inu he was drafted in by Salford Red Devils.
Macdonald revealed the impact of Inu on the move: “Firstly, thank you to the coaching staff and everyone behind the scenes that helped me get this deal over the line.
“It is an exciting time for me to start a new chapter in my life, with a great team.
“I am excited to get out there for 2024 and the style of footy Salford play really suits me.
“It’s a great team that can push to play in finals and win some trophies.
“Thanks to a good friend of mine, Krisnan Inu for putting in a good word and letting me know nothing but good things about the club.
“I am excited to get in front of the Salford fans, play some good footy and earn their respect!”
Head Coach, Paul Rowley has added: “Nene is a very significant addition to our team and I am looking forward to seeing him entertain our fans in 2024.
“I wanted to sign Nene two years ago – as he is very much my kind of athlete – so to eventually land him is fantastic.
“Massive credit goes to Krisnan Inu for bringing this deal from start to finish to our table, materialising from the friendship and respect he has with Nene and his advisors.
“Myself, Kurt and Kris are looking forward to welcoming Nene to our group and helping him show his best in a Salford shirt!”
Director of Rugby & Operations, Ian Blease has added: “Nene is a very exciting signing for our club.
“He is a player who knows exactly what it is like to play on the big occasions and will add some serious quality to the squad in 2024.
“I am sure he will excite the fans on a weekly basis. He is highly-skilled, intelligent and definitely the right fit for this team.
“I would like to welcome Nene to Salford and look forward to seeing what we can achieve together!”
Everyone at Salford Red Devils would like to welcome Nene to the club and look forward to seeing him in action very soon.
