Revealed: Why Tee Ritson’s move to St Helens is only a loan as Champions edge out “multiple Super League clubs” for his signature

Barrow Raiders have had to say goodbye to their star winger Tee Ritson today with the winger leaving for Super League Champions St Helens in 2023.

He surprisingly joins just on loan but with an option to make it permanent.

Barrow’s Chief Executive explained why this was the case as he revealed that St Helens beat competition from “multiple Super League clubs” to get the deal done as a Super League release clause was revealed.

Steve Neale said on the club website: “After Tee’s fabulous season for the Raiders, we had multiple Super League clubs expressing an interest in signing him, but both Barrow Raiders and Tee think that this is the best possible deal.

“Tee had a Super League release clause, so the club were powerless to stop a move, and we wouldn’t want to get in the way of Tee’s ambition, given how much he has done for the club with his exceptional community work complimenting his on-field performances.

“The deal gives a safety net for Tee in that if he doesn’t make the Saints squad then Barrow have the option of recalling him to play for the Raiders.

“Should things work out then Saints have the option to buy out the third year of Tee’s Barrow contract, but if he fails to make the grade then he can return to us.

“We obviously wish Tee well, and we hope he makes the grade and fulfils all his dreams.

“We look forward to the rest of the rugby league world finding out what a special talent we had.”