Salford ‘stance’ clarified after Leeds Rhinos linked to star man

After reports emerged yesterday that Leeds Rhinos were planning a surprise move for former captain and current Salford skipper Kallum Watkins, the stance of the Red Devils has been clarified.

It would be a sensational return if Leeds Rhinos were able to land Watkins with the 33-year-old last playing for the Headingley club in 2019 before moving to the NRL.

On his return to Super League, he joined Salford Red Devils where he has flourished and transitioned to become one of the competition’s leading second rowers.

He continued his excellent form with a two-try display against Leeds Rhinos on Saturday and that performance was quickly followed by reports from The Daily Mirror that Leeds were “keen” on bringing Watkins back.

If a deal could be done it would mean that Watkins would follow the likes of Andy Ackers, Brodie Croft and Sporting Director Ian Blease, whilst also re-uniting with former Rhinos teammate Ryan Hall who will return to Headingley for 2025.

However, Salford’s stance on Watkins has now been clarified.

Leeds Rhinos set to be snubbed in Kallum Watkins pursuit

Per Love Rugby League, Salford Red Devils have not received any form of approach for Kallum Watkins from Leeds Rhinos.

Moreover, Love Rugby League report that any approach would likely be turned away with the Red Devils having “no intention whatsoever” of allowing Watkins to leave.

The 33-year-old is contracted until the end of the 2025 season and is currently showing form that would suggest he could play far beyond the end of next year.

Watkins has played in every single game for Salford Red Devils this year and leads the league in marker tackles whilst also averaging 32.5 tackles per game.

It’s clear to see why Leeds Rhinos would want his services with the club set to lose Rhyse Martin but also having second rower James Donaldson out of contract.

Salford’s reported refusal to sell Watkins comes as no surprise given the huge praise that he has come in for from head coach Paul Rowley of late.

Speaking after the 22-16 win over Leeds Rhinos on Saturday, Rowley beamed about his captain as he praised his influence at the club.

Rowley said: “Since I’ve been at this club I’ve never come across a player to have a bigger influence on other players than Kallum Watkins.

“I guess he’s the perfect role model of a captain, of a player, as a human being. I thought his performance today was brilliant.

“We all feel the same at this club that we’re privileged to be able to work alongside Kallum. I thought it was fantastic today and absolutely deserved the man of the match.”