Salford RLFC have added another talented youngster to their squad with an ex-Warrington Wolves academy centre signed on loan.
The reformed club lost their season opener 44-0 against Oldham but the fact they were able to field a team is itself a major achievement, having only been granted RFL membership on December 22nd.
In the three to four weeks between then and their season opener, Salford were able to compile a squad, appoint a coach and get thousands of fans back on board with a reported attendance of around 5,000 for their game with Oldham RLFC.
They’ve now been able to confirm yet another loan signing with Widnes Vikings sending their 2026 signing Deacon Connolly to Salford in an attempt to help the young centre gain senior experience.
Both clubs have confirmed the move with Connolly in with a chance of featuring this weekend in Salford’s second round Challenge Cup tie against Hammersmith.
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Salford RLFC sign centre on loan from Widnes Vikings
The Vikings had only confirmed the signing of Connolly earlier this month with the centre spending much of the off-season on trial before then being offered a deal.
Still only 18, Connolly was formerly part of the Warrington Wolves academy after signing to the Super League club from community side Rochdale Mayfield.
He now heads out to Salford in a bid to gain more experience with Widnes conforming that they have a call-back option on the teenager, should they need him.
Head coach Allan Coleman said: “The main thing for us is that Deacon is playing regularly. He wants to be at this club, but at the minute we’re doing okay injury-wise in his position.
“It’s vital that he’s getting regular rugby at this level; he’ll be able to develop further playing at Salford, and we can keep an eye on his progress.”
Salford also took to social media to confirm the arrival.
Loan announcement 🚨
Salford RLFC are thrilled to announce the loan signing of Deacon Connolly.
The Centre will be loaned out from his current club @WidnesRL
Welcome to Salford Deacon 👹 pic.twitter.com/PcePSZ4zMv
— Salford RLFC (@Salford_RLFC) January 21, 2026
