Super League club make their move for major immediate signing

Mid-season signings can change a season as we have seen from Leeds Rhinos in 2019 and Wigan Warriors in 2006.

In both seasons the clubs were facing the prospect of relegation but made the necessary signings to turn things around.

Leeds signed Rob Lui, Shaun Lunt, Ava Seaumanufagai and Rhyse Martin as they allowed Tui Lolohea to join Salford Red Devils and Matt Parcell head to Hull KR.

Wigan famously signed Stuart Fielden from Bradford Bulls as Brian Noble guided them away from trouble.

Castleford Tigers subsequently suffered relegation and will be hoping to avoid that fate but rivals Wakefield Trinity have been busy signing David Fifita, Luke Gale, Will Dagger and Josh Griffin.

But what about the Tigers? Last week Andy Last said on BBC Radio Leeds: “Yeah, I can’t really comment on what other teams are doing. All I know is that we are looking and we’ve had some inquiries about some players. The final part of it is getting the deal done.

“It’s tough. Other teams have been a bit more successful than we have. But we are looking and we want to get that player in that can make a difference.

“Did I know Josh Griffin was available? Yes, I found out on Saturday morning. So, yes, I knew he was available.

“Yes, we had a little conversation, but obviously he’s made the decision to go to Wakefield, so that’s obviously on Josh.”

However, there are reports the Tigers will sign Kayal Iro, son of Kevin Iro who previously played for Leeds, Wigan and St Helens and is a former Super League Champion.

Iro starred for Cook Islands in the World Cup and is currently plying his trade down under.

Andy Last confirmed that the Tigers are working to finalise the move: “An offer has been made and it’s a case of seeing if we can get it across the line. He’s someone I think could help us.

“The process of recruitment and getting players across the line, you identify the player, offer them a deal and they may agree but the other club on the other side of the world have got to agree to it.

“We’re working through a process and hopefully we get positive news. It’s not a done deal yet.”