Salford swoop in for Jackson Hastings

Salford have signed recently released Manly half-back Jackson Hastings on a deal until the end of the season.

The 22-year-old is awaiting final visa clearance and will link up with the Red Devils as soon as his paperwork is complete in Australia.

Hastings has played 47 games in the NRL for Sydney Roosters and Manly Sea Eagles, scoring three tries and kicking 34 goals.

On signing Hastings, Salford coach Ian Watson said: “He’s a huge talent with huge potential.

“The fact Trent Robinson let [James] Maloney leave the Roosters so Jackson could partner Mitchell Pearce shows his level of quality.

“Obviously there were numerous Super League clubs chasing him and we are delighted he has chosen to come to us. Hopefully together we can restart Jackson’s first grade career.

“He has been the guy we have been missing in terms of organisation and kicking game. He’s looking forward to getting over here and getting stuck in.”

Red Devils director of rugby Ian Blease added: “Jackson is a signing that should rightly excite everybody in the city.

“He is an exciting match-winner and will slot into our set-up perfectly at this crucial time.

“A huge amount of hard-work behind the scenes has gone into making this happen over the past few months and we are delighted to get it over the line. Opportunities to sign players this talented do not come along too often and it speaks volumes that we have beaten off some serious competition for his signature.

“I’d like to thank the player’s agent for all his help as well as Marwan Koukash who has honoured his pledge to support the club with the acquisition of a player.”