Leeds Rhinos and Wigan Warriors are the two main clubs that are interested in a halfback for the 2024 season and soon the likes of Hull FC and Leigh Leopards could join the hunt.
This is because Hull FC have a fight on their hands to keep Jake Clifford. The halfback has been one of the best signings of the season.
He was vital in guiding the Black and Whites to a memorable win over Hull KR in Round 18 which gave their play-off hopes an almighty boost.
Clifford has perhaps been the best signing of 2023 but his battle to be the best number seven has seen him tussle with the league’s other in form star in the shape of Leigh Leopards’ Lachlan Lam.
He followed his dad and international teammate with Papua New Guinea Edwin Ipape to Leigh and is one of the main driving forces guiding the Leopards to success in 2023 with a place at Wembley 80 minutes away as they take on St Helens in the Challenge Cup semi-finals and the Leopards are also second in the league.
However, Leigh face a battle to keep him with Canberra Raiders reportedly interested in the halfback among three other clubs whilst Wests Tigers and North Queensland Cowboys are interested in Jake Clifford.
But could these clubs move for Blake Austin as well. Austin said he was open to a move down under.
Wests Tigers
This is the club who are interested in halfbacks with former Rhinos target Luke Brooks headed to Manly Sea Eagles. They have been interested in Clifford, Lam, Brodie Croft of Salford Red Devils, George Williams at Warrington Wolves and Mitchell Pearce. They have now moved for Austin’s teammate Aidan Sezer but failing that Austin would make a great signing he said they could give him a call.
Canberra Raiders
In need of a halfback with Jack Wighton headed to South Sydney Rabbitohs in 2024. Sezer’s former club, could he have a reunion with the green machine.
There are also a number of Super League clubs who could be interested:
Wigan Warriors
With Cade Cust moving to nine and being out of contract at the end of the season, Blake Austin would make a smart signing.
Catalans Dragons
With both Tyrone May and Mitchell Pearce set for exits, Blake Austin would make an ideal signing especially if they sign Theo Fages as his foil.
Hull FC
With Jake Clifford headed back to the NRL, Hull FC could certainly be interested in Austin.
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Leigh Leopards
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