RL Rumours: Nene Macdonald latest, Rhinos man linked with exit and Adam Clune set for Huddersfield move

Below is a round-up of all the biggest rumours and gossip from the world of rugby league over the past week.

Nene Macdonald latest

Leeds Rhinos centre Nene Macdonald’s future at Headingley is currently in the air following his return to Australia for the birth of his child; and now Rohan Smith has spoken on the subject in his weekly press conference, saying: “I’ve checked in a few times regarding that one, but it’s still a work in progress and a resolution is getting closer is the only real update that I’ve had.” Macdonald has since been selected to represent PNG in a game against Australia’s Prime Ministers XIII, however he has still not returned to the Rhinos.

Rhinos man linked with exit 

From one Rhinos back to another. Rumours have emerged that Luke Hooley has been linked with a move away from the club. Speaking to the media yesterday, Rohan Smith commented on this potential move, saying: “Luke will no doubt draw some interest I would imagine given that we’ve signed an established NRL fullback and Luke was brought in to be a backup fullback and he’s done a commendable job I think in recent times in tough circumstances.” The Rhinos have recently signed Newcastle Knights fullback Lachie Miller ahead of the 2024 season, meaning Hooley’s chances of game time are looking slim. The fullback has played seven times for the club since his arrival this season, but he looks likely to be heading for the exit door after just one season.

Adam Clune move to Huddersfield reportedly confirmed 

Newcastle Knights halfback Adam Clune has been heavily linked with a move for some time now, however reports from Newcastle Herald reporter Barry Toohey now confirm he is on his way to the John Smith’s. When asked about Clune’s future at Newcastle on social media, Toohey responded: “signed with Huddersfield. Jack Cogger replacing him”, which all but confirms the halfbacks move. Clune isn’t the only new arrival heading to the Giants from the NRL, as the club have also confirmed Jack Murchie will be joining ahead of the 2024 season.

Retired NRL player linked with Super League move 

Retired NRL star Wade Graham has been linked with a move to Catalans Dragons, according to Catalan Media. Posting on social media, Catalan Media said: “Hearing Catalans are having one last push to persuade NRL, Kangaroos and Origin star Wade Graham to put off retirement for another season-or-so.” Graham has previously been linked with a move to Catalans, however he opted to stay in the NRL. During his career, Graham represented NSW in State of Origin, as well as donning the Green and Gold of Australia. He announced his retirement back in August, but could a move to the South of France tempt him to play for one more season?

Brad Parker on the move?

Manly Sea Eagles player Brad Parker is attracting interest from clubs in the UK, according to the infamous Mole from the Wide World of Sports. Posting on social media yesterday, the renowned Australian journalist said: “Interest from UK in Parker but will probably stay… may end up in the back row…”. Only time will tell if we see Parker on our shores, but Super League clubs are sniffing around the centre, who has racked up 117 for the Sea Eagles since his debut in 2017.