Paper Talk: Kopczak staying put, Eastmond deal stalled, Salford battle for Hastings
Expect a lot of transfers being done before the Super 8s split.
Kopczak not leaving Salford
Salford Red Devils coach Ian Watson insists that Craig Kopczak is not leaving the club any time soon, report League Express.
The 31-year-old has continuously been linked with moves away this season, with Hull FC, Wakefield Trinity and Leeds Rhinos being the clubs interested. Watson said: “I know there has been a lot of stuff in the press about that, but all that we can say is that we have dead-set not received an offer from anyone for him.”
RFL hoping for Denver repeat
England chiefs remain hopeful they can convince the NRL to back next year’s Denver Test, despite the backlash Down Under, report League Weekly.
NRL clubs had been reluctant to allow players to play in the Test due to safety concerns and it is unclear as to whether it will go ahead next year, but Rugby Football League interim CEO Ralph Rimmer remains positive. He told League Weekly: “I would say that it was an experience worth repeating as far as England is concerned. It would be worthwhile repeating if we get the opportunity.”
Eastmond move stalled
Warrington Wolves’ attempt to lure former St Helens half-back Kyle Eastmond to Super League have stalled, report League Express.
The Wolves had made a big-money offer to the 28-year-old to try and bring him back to the 13-aside code from rugby union earlier this year. Eastmond is currently a free agent after leaving Wasps but the Wolves have become frustrated over a lack of progress with Eastmond and his representatives.
Salford battling for Hastings
Jackson Hastings could be an option for Salford as they look to strengthen their squad with at least one ‘class’ recruit within the next fortnight, report League Weekly.
Huddersfield Giants were the favourites to sign the recently released Manly Sea Eagles half-back, but they pulled out of the deal on the weekend. Red Devils CEO told League Weekly: “A class player who could manage the game for us would assist us.” Could Hastings be that man?
Halifax eyeing Bradford star Keyes
Halifax are said to be interested in Bradford Bulls’ half-back Joe Keyes, claims Dave Parker in his column for League Weekly.
The Ireland international has impressed at the Bulls since his switch from London Broncos in 2016. He has earned six caps for Ireland and is only 22, so there is still a lot of potential in him. Fax are keen to secure his services.
Finn wants Wakefield stay
Wakefield half-back Liam Finn has insisted that he wants to play on next year, preferably with Trinity, report League Express.
The 34-year-old is out-of-contract at the end of this season and is yet to agree terms on a deal for the 2019 campaign. He told League Express: “I want to play on. I’m not sure how that’s going to go or what the club’s plans are, but I’ve let them know where I stand and how I feel.”
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