Richie Myler on Elliott Whitehead signing and Hull FC transfer plans

Hull FC have had a busy few weeks in the transfer market. In an attempt to turn around a disastrous start to the 2024 season, and build for 2025, they have raided several Super League rivals to bolster their squad. 

FC legend, Tom Briscoe, returned to the club where he started his career. Yusuf Aydin arrived from Hull KR, with Jack Brown moving in the opposite direction.

They have also secured the signatures of John Asiata and Oliver Holmes from the Leigh Leopards for 2025, much to Derek Beaumont’s chagrin. The fall-out from the Asiata deal left Hull FC weaker, with loanee Ed Chamberlain being recalled from his loan spell by Leigh.

Hull have been without a permanent head coach since Tony Smith’s departure in April. Interim head coach, Simon Grix, is still searching for his first win as FC boss.

With a crucial clash against bottom side, London Broncos, this weekend, Myler has spoken about the possibility of more signings joining Hull FC in the coming weeks and months.

Hull FC hopeful of more incoming signings

Myler has revealed that Hull remain active in the transfer market, and are hopeful of bringing in a number of new faces to bolster the squad. Helped by the large number of players off-contract at FC at the end of the season, Myler has been afforded breathing space to negotiate in the market.

“We had 15 players off-contract when I came in, so there was scope to make change in the club. We’ve got one more marquee spot that’s available and if the right person becomes available, we’re interested.

“We need more experience throughout our starting 17, that’s clear. We’re asking a lot of our young players, to play a lot of minutes and have a lot of exposure. That will be good in the long run but you can’t have too much of that. We’ve got lots of scope, we’re in conversation with six or seven players we’re confident can come in and add to the group.”

One of the players linked with Hull in recent days is Elliot Whitehead. The England International is approaching the end of his contract with the Canberra Raiders in the NRL. He had been widely expected to retire at the end of the season, however reports have suggested he may be open to playing on for one more year in Super League.

Catalans Dragons have been heavily linked, and Whitehead spent a spell there earlier in his career. However, Myler has confirmed that the Black and Whites are interested in Whitehead, should he decide to play on. Myler also confirmed he has been in touch with Whitehead, although not to discuss a move to Hull.

“No, Elliott is not one I’ve spoken to on a contract level,” Myler said.

“He touched base about an assistant coach he knew that was looking for a job who he knew, that’s as far as that went. If he wants to come back to England we’d be interested in a conversation. He’s that mould of leader and high-performing individual we’d be interested in.”