NRL clubs chase Burgess

Bradford forward Sam Burgess is being chased by several NRL clubs including Manly and Wests.

Burgess, 20, has made more than 80 appearances for Bradford since bursting on to the scene in 2006 and he announced himself on the international stage in Great Britain’s 3-0 test series win over New Zealand in 2007.

He caught the attention of fans Down Under with a huge hit on Kiwi forward Fuifui Moimoi and now NRL clubs want to take him to Australia when his Bulls contract ends.

Manly recruitment manager Noel Cleal told Rugby League Week magazine: “We have spoken to Sam and he has made no secret of the fact that he wants to come and play down here.

“He is a talented young player and probably the pick of the next generation of stars over there. He can play prop or second row and has plenty of size.”

There will be no shortage of clubs after his signature, with Wests another club said to be interested.

Tigers coach Tim Sheens said: “The kid can play, no doubt about it. We have had great success with Gareth (Ellis) this season and sometimes it is hard to get quality players away from their clubs in the NRL, so you have to look outside the square.”

Ellis joined Wests from Leeds in the close season hoping to emulate the success fellow England international Adrian Morley enjoyed with Sydney Roosters. Hull-bound Leeds full-back Jordan Tansey is currently on-loan with the Roosters.

Richie Mathers, Mark Edmondson and Chris Thorman are other English players who have recently had brief spells Down Under.