Tyrone Roberts: Leeds Rhinos boss Rohan Smith responds to transfer speculation

Leeds Rhinos boss Rohan Smith has responded to the recent speculation linking the side with ex-Warrington marquee man Tyrone Roberts for 2024.

Leeds Live reported that the Headingley Stadium outfit were considering a ‘shock’ move for the playmaker, who currently features in the Queensland Cup.

The 32-year-old played one season in Super League for Warrington in 2018 before returning to Australia, having initially joined on a three-year deal.

He later featured for the Gold Coast Titans and Brisbane Broncos back in the NRL.

Current Leeds playmakers Blake Austin and Aidan Sezer remain without deals beyond the current campaign, while speculated target Luke Brooks recently penned a new four-year deal with Manly Sea Eagles.

Smith and ex-Newcastle Knights utility Roberts have previously worked together with the North Devils until the Australian coach’s move to England midway through the 2022 Super League campaign.

Leeds boss responds to Tyrone Roberts links

“I’ve known Tyrone since 2007 or 2008 MAYBE when he took himself to Newcastle,” Smith told media on Tuesday. “We’ve crossed paths a few times at the Titans and the North Devils.

“But that one has absolutely no truth to it. The last time I spoke to Tyrone was a couple of texts in and around the North Devils’ Grand Final last year when they went back to back.

“Tyrone is a great kid, but we’ve had no correspondence as far as a contract goes. I’m not quite sure where that one surfaced from.”

Roberts joined Queensland Cup outfit Burleigh Bears ahead of the 2023 season, featuring twice so far this year.

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