Paper Talk: QLT to extend Castleford stay, Leeds want Crosby and Aiton, Leigh eye NRL forward

There are two weeks left until the transfer deadline and rumours are flying left, right and all of the way down the M62!

QLT to pen new deal with Castleford

Castleford Tigers coach Daryl Powell has revealed the club are in talks with Quentin Laulu-Togaga’e over a new contract, report League Express.

The 33-year-old has impressed in Super League since joining from Halifax earlier in the season. Powell told League Express: “We’ve spoken to him about a new contract.  There’s no concrete decision yet and we’re still discussing it with Q. But he’s been a great addition, and he’s fitted in so well to the way we play.”

Wigan ace Ganson attracting interest

Wigan Warriors have turned down an offer from Catalans Dragons for a loan or permanent move for highly-rated hooker Josh Ganson, report League Weekly.

The former England Academy captain was wanted by Hull Kingston Rovers six weeks ago as cover for Shaun Lunt, while Dave Parker claims rivals St Helens wanted Ganson to be cover for James Roby.

Hill praises marquee man Austin

Warrington Wolves captain Chris Hill thinks new recruit Blake Austin is a perfect replacement for Tyrone Roberts, report League Express.

It was announced last week that Canberra Raiders half-back Austin, 27, will join the Wolves on a three-year marquee contract from 2019. Hill told League Express: “Blake is absolutely class, I have watched him quite a few times. I spoke to a few of the Canberra boys like Josh Hodgson and Elliott Whitehead and they speak highly of him and are impressed by him. They said that they are sad to see him go.”

Ablett to stay at Leeds next year

Carl Ablett is set to stay at Leeds Rhinos next season, report League Weekly.

The veteran back-rower, who has been at the Rhinos for 14 years now, is out-of-contract at the end of the season and has recently been linked with moves to Hull KR and the Queensland Cup. However, it is reported that he has signed a new deal with Leeds for next season.

Leigh favourites for Gubb

Leigh Centurions remain at the head of the queue for Canberra Raiders’ sought-after New Zealand forward Charlie Gubb, report League Express.

The Centurions confirmed they were eyeing a second overseas player when they announced the signing of Gold Coast Titans utility-back Brendan Elliot. Leigh are leading the race for Gubb, but face stiff competition from Widnes Vikings.

Leeds want Crosby and Aiton

Leeds Rhinos are trying to haul back Paul Aiton into action as well as bringing in Warrington Wolves front-rower Dom Crosby on loan until the end of the season, report League Weekly.

Aiton, 33, retired from the sport earlier in the season due to a number of concussion injuries, while Crosby, 27, has found chances limited at Warrington this season and is off-contract at the end of the campaign.

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