Paper Talk: Wigan move for Richardson, Newcastle target McShane, Watson lands GB role
Photo courtesy of Richard Long
Transfer speculation is rife in the latest newspapers.
Wigan to make shock move for Richardson
Wigan Warriors are lining up a move for another half-back even though they still hope to land Jackson Hastings – St Helens’ Danny Richardson, report League Weekly.
The Warriors are still likely to see off Leeds Rhinos in the battle for Salford Red Devils star Hastings, despite the Rhinos desperately bidding to land the Aussie now to boost their survival hopes. Wigan fancy their chances of landing Hastings for 2020 – but League Weekly also suggest Wigan are lining up a shock move for Saints star Richardson.
Hull leading Fonua race
Hull FC are now firm favourites to win the race to sign Mahe Fonua next season after the other Super League club in the mix to sign the Wests Tigers back pulled out of the running, report League Express.
Hull were battling head-to-head with another top side for the services of Fonua, who is off-contract at Wests at the end of the this season and has reportedly been told he will bot be offered a new deal for 2020, according to League Express. Hull are also eyeing Huddersfield Giants forward Sebastine Ikahihifo, with the Giants looking to sell him at the end of the year.
Watson gets GB role
Ian Watson is to step up to international level by becoming a Great Britain assistant coach, report The Sun.
The Salford Red Devils boss will work alongside head coach Wayne Bennett for the Tests against New Zealand, Tonga and Papua New Guinea this autumn. One of Bennett’s aims during his visit last week was to interview candidates to replace James Lowes – who has moved to rugby union – and Paul Wellens – who has asked for the winter off after four consecutive years. The Sun claim former Wales international Watson will be on the new-look Lions staff.
Castleford complete NRL capture
Castleford Tiger have completed the signing of Cronulla Sharks winger Sosaia Feki on a three-year deal, report League Express.
The Tigers were in discussions with the Sharks winger last week but League Express report that a deal has now been reached for the Tonga international ahead of the 2020 season. It’s believed the Tigers were also interested in Mahe Fonua, but he has joined Hull FC.
Newcastle target McShane
Newcastle Knights have made a move to sign Castleford Tigers hooker Paul McShane, report League Weekly.
Warrington Wolves were also said by Jungle insiders to have been considering a move for the rake, despite having his old team-mate Daryl Clark in the prime of his career and former Widnes prospect Danny Walker in their squad too. According to League Weekly, Knights coach Nathan Brown sees him as a pivotal figure that can be so dominant around the ruck.
Austin wants GB spot
Blake Austin has declared his intention to represent Great Britain, report League Express.
The Warrington Wolves half-back has admitted it would be an honour to be selected for the tour later this year and claims coach Wayne Bennett is aware of his desire to feature. Austin – who is eligible through his English grandmother – has only ever played internationally for Portugal. He told League Express: “To represent my grandmother and to be able to phone her and tell her she’s the reason I’m in this team… She’s been a huge supporter of my career.”
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