Leeds Rhinos transfer speculation: Rohan Smith on Danny Levi, Aidan Sezer, Blake Austin

Leeds Rhinos coach Rohan Smith has provided fresh updates on the futures of out of contract half-backs Blake Austin and Aidan Sezer as well as reports linking them with a move for Danny Levi.

Smith has confirmed that he has spoken to Austin today following his appearance on Sky Sports’ Rugby League Verdict, with the Australian playmaker having won Super League’s Player of the Month for June.

Speaking to Jenna Brooks on Wednesday, Austin said: “I’ve got no issues being honest, contracts are something that are between two parties. From my end, I learned about my prospects of staying at the club in Rohan’s press conferences.

“The last I’ve heard is that I’m in his thoughts, so hopefully I can keep playing well and stay in them.

“My preference has always been to stay at Leeds, I played in a Grand Final here six months ago, and I feel like my form’s been pretty steady here this year.

“I’d love to keep turning out in front of the South Stand for a little bit longer, for sure.”

Rohan Smith: Blake and I have had a conversation

Smith held his weekly press conference on Thursday, where he was asked about Austin’s comments the day prior.

Smith said: “Following from yesterday’s news, Blake and I have had a conversation today.

“There’s also been ongoing dialogue with his player agent so we went through a few things there.

“Blake’s an important part of our squad, he’s playing well, he’s had a good, solid season and he’s an important part of things.

“But the contract side of things won’t be played out publicly from my end but I’ll continue to have conversations with Blake and his management in time.”

Leeds Rhinos boss on Danny Levi reports

Earlier this week, Leeds Live reported that the Rhinos were interested in signing Samoa international  Danny Levi for 2024.

When asked of their reported interest in the former Huddersfield hooker, Smith replied: “I’m not going to buy into any of the speculation.

“When or if there’s a signing, we’ll be excited to announce.”

Rohan Smith on the future of Aidan Sezer

Sezer is out of contract with the Rhinos at the end of the season, with The Daily Telegraph reporting that they interested in the Australian half-back.

When asked about the latest reports regarding Sezer, Smith replied: “I’m not sure about reports so that’s a question I can’t answer.

“Those conversations are to be had behind closed doors and if Aidan’s got an announcement to make he can make that but from our point of view we’ll talk behind closed doors.”

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