Castleford receive undisclosed fee for Luke Gale

Drew Darbyshire 01 Oct 2019 8:54 AM

Castleford have confirmed they have accepted a significant undisclosed sum for half-back Luke Gale.

The 31-year-old is set to be officially unveiled as a Leeds player at midday, with the Tigers announcing his departure this morning.

Gale has made more than 100 appearances for the Tigers since his move from Bradford in 2015, helping the club to the League Leaders’ Shield in 2017 which saw him pick up the Steve Prescott Man of Steel award.

The England international will link up with the Rhinos in pre-season, with Castleford having already secured his replacement, which is believed to be St Helens man Danny Richardson.

Tigers director of rugby, Jon Wells, said: “Luke came to see us earlier in the year and expressed a desire to pursue other opportunities away from Castleford Tigers.

“Whilst Luke has been an integral part of our on-field progress over the last few seasons, the club’s position – as is the case with all players – is that we would not want to stand in the way of anyone who saw his future in another club’s colours.

“Luke has been a true professional on and off the field during his time with us – particularly over the last two seasons where injuries have kept him sidelined for long periods of time. But the club has also been good for Luke; he has become an international player in his time at the Tigers and was crowned the Man of Steel in 2017 on that back of performances that will live long in the memory of every Cas fan.

“He leaves with our best wishes. The Tigers have signed a replacement who will be announced at the appropriate time and in conjunction with his current club.”