Transfer stories often captivate fans which is why we are seeing them dominate Super League news and rugby league news in general as announcements and rumours circle the likes of Leeds Rhinos, Wigan Warriors, Warrington Wolves, St Helens, Hull KR and Hull FC.
It seems one position is at the heart of all of this and unsurprisingly that is the halfback role.
We have seen reports that Leeds could lose Blake Austin and then reports that Aidan Sezer could leave Headingley with the Rhinos working to keep Austin.
The Rhinos have been linked with a number of halfback options whilst Wigan Warriors and Catalans Dragons are interested in halfbacks for 2024.
This is because Cade Cust has transitioned to nine and Mitchell Pearce and Tyrone May are set for big NRL moves.
Speaking of NRL moves Salford Red Devils star Brodie Croft and Leigh Leopards’ Lachlan Lam are halfbacks who have also been linked with moves down under as has the brilliant Jake Clifford.
One of Super League’s most in form players, Clifford has looked like the best number seven in Super League.
Following this former Hull FC and Hull KR star Paul Cooke said he could return to the NRL and now a club has entered the race to sign him in the shape of his former club the North Queensland Cowboys.
Meanwhile, Wests Tigers, still looking for a halfback after Luke Brooks’ decision to join Manly Sea Eagles for 2024, are also interested according to the Daily Telegraph who report:
“Wests Tigers have been offered Jake Clifford but a North Queensland homecoming looms more likely for the ex-Cowboys and Newcastle playmaker
“Clifford joined Hull FC this year but is expected to return to the NRL in 2024.
“The Cowboys have discussed signing the 25-year-old to add some depth to their halves.”
In an interesting twist, Fox League have reported that the halfback has a “get out clause” that allows him to leave for the NRL if an offer comes in so these two clubs appear ready to trigger this clause.
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