Super League clubs face race against time to complete major signings

The likes of Leeds Rhinos, Wigan Warriors and Warrington Wolves have all made some big signings for next year but Hull FC and Hull KR have been involved in immediate business.

Leeds have drafted in Mickael Goudemand for the 2024 whilst they have been linked with former Huddersfield Giants star Danny Levi and Tyrone Roberts.

Meanwhile, Wigan have signed Sam Walters for next year as well as Kruise Leeming and of course Tiaki Chan from Catalans Dragons whilst his teammate Adam Keighran is also set to make the move.

As for Warrington, they have recruited Newcastle Knights Lachlan Fitzgibbon for next year but Hull KR have moved for an NRL star immediately in Brad Schneider as their rivals Hull FC allowed Josh Griffin to join Wakefield Trinity.

However, there isn’t long left for teams to make immediate signings. The deadline is August 4th leaving a club like Castleford Tigers under pressure.

Speaking on immediate signings, Andy Last said on BBC Radio Leeds: “We’re always looking, but like we’ve said before we need to make sure that if we recruit somebody, he fits what we want, you know, he doesn’t block somebody’s pathway, that person can impact and help the team in the here and now, but also help with regards to the culture and what he wants to do off the field and also on the field.

“So, you know, when I’ve said previously about there’s nothing out there, I mean there’s been nothing out there for us.

“And what we’ve done is, we’ve remained patient and we’ve made sure that the players that were brought in like Riley Dean and Jordan Johnson are going to help us in the here and now. What we didn’t want to do was bring in players in a short-term state, which impacts on your long-term decision.”

In a strange twist, high flyers Leigh Leopards are also open to it as well. Adrian Lam has admitted the club could make an immediate signing before the August 4th deadline.

“It’s a possibility. There’s still three or four weeks to be able to do that.

“I think it’s an area most clubs look at to see how you stand financially and positionally. So there’s a chance that it may happen.

“We’ll keep our eyes open on that and make some decisions as they are needed as it approaches.”

The Tigers are expected to sign Kayal Iro from the NRL, the son of former Super League Champion and Leeds, St Helens and Wigan Warriors star Kevin Iro.

They have also been linked with George Burgess in a shocking transfer story from Rugby League Live but this is believed to be unlikely.