Transfer news: Experienced forward offered to Super League clubs

The Super League recruitment window is now in full swing, and the trickle of transfer activity is beginning to turn into a flood. Hull FC have been by far the most active side, having completed a flurry of transfers from Super League rivals.

However, as yet, there have been no significant moves to confirm signings from the NRL for 2025. The Catalans Dragons have been linked with a move for wingers Dallin Watene-Zelezniak and Daniel Tupou, however, nothing official has been announced.

According to reports in Australia, one Papua New Guinea international could be on the verge of leaving the NRL behind and making the switch to Super League for 2025.

St George Illawarra man offered to Super League clubs

Jack de Belin is currently a one-club man, having made his debut for St George Illawarra in 2011. In a distinguished career, he has made 214 appearances, scoring 16 tries. De Belin’s contract with the Red Vee is due to expire at the end of the season.

According to a report in the Daily Telegraph, de Belin may leave the NRL to join a Super League side. The Telegraph report states that de Belin has not yet been offered a deal by St George Illawarra for next season. As a result, Super League clubs have been alerted to his availability and are preparing offers for the PNG international.

De Belin, 33, is approaching the latter part of his career and this may be the last opportunity he has to make the move to play in Super League. St George coach, Shane Flanagan, now has a decision to make of de Belin’s future at the club.

State of Origin star’s future in doubt

De Belin has represented New South Wales at State of Origin, making three appearances in the 2018 series. He has earned three caps for Papua New Guinea, after qualifying to play for the Kumuls through his grand-mother.

His career was disrupted by an allegation of sexual assault, which went to trial. However, all charges were dropped in May 2021 and de Belin was able to resume his career with the Dragons.

He has made nine NRL appearances so far this season, scoring his only try of the season so far in a heavy defeat against Syndey Roosters.

A host of Super League clubs will be interested in de Belin, who is able to play prop and loose forward. He would be a logical replacement for John Asiata, for example, at the Leigh Leopards.

With the Leeds pack also lacking size, de Belin may be a good fit for the Rhinos. Then there is Hull, with Richie Myler keen to add quality and experience to the FC ranks for 2025 – another club where signing the 33-year-old makes a lot of sense.

Given de Belin’s physicality and direct running style, Super League seems the perfect destination for a player showing no signs of his ageing years. Whichever club lands the no-nonsense forward will be gaining a quality player.