Below is a round-up of all the biggest rumours and gossip from the world of rugby league over the past week.
England Rugby Union star attracting interest in Rugby League
English Rugby Union star Henry Arundell is attracting the interest of several NRL clubs, according to reports. The winger recently represented England at last month’s Rugby Union World Cup, where he scored five tries in a single match against Chile. The 21-year-old now ply’s his trade out in France for Racing 92, however reports have now emerged several NRL sides are interested in bringing him over to League, and it is also reported he is interested in the move.
Leeds Rhinos involved in winger merry-go-round
It looked like it could be a case of one-in one-out at Headingley in the coming weeks. Earlier this week, reports from the Yorkshire Post emerged suggesting Wakefield Trinity winger Lee Kershaw is attracting the interest of Leeds Rhinos, and it was thought that this could bring Derrell Olpherts time at the club to an end. Olpherts had a difficult debut season following his arrival from Castleford Tigers, but has attracted interest from Leigh Leopards this off-season. But it now seems Olpherts will be staying and there will be no move for Kershaw with Olpherts awarded the number 19 shirt for next year.
Catalans Dragons on the look-out for outside back
Steve McNamara has detailed what is at the top of his wish-list ahead of the 2024 season, citing his teams need for an outside back. Speaking on BBC radio Humberside, McNamara said: “I wish we had three but now we’ve got one, so we’ll be patient. We’re looking for another outside back, that’s what we’re looking for. I feel we need some strike out there; but we’ll sit on our heels for now and we’ll see what comes up.” The Dragons will be on the hunt for silverware last year after their Old Trafford heartbreak, and McNamara will be hoping a potential new addition to the backline could help them this campaign.
Ben Murdoch-Masila to return to the UK?
Former Warrington Wolves forward Ben Murdoch-Masila could be set for a return to Super League, as he enters the last year of his contract down under. The powerful forward, who also spent time at Salford Red Devils whilst in the UK, has been available to Super League sides from the beginning of this month as he enters the last year of his deal at St George Illawarra, so we could see him back in the UK soon.
