Super League Transfer Rumours: McGuire, Dupree, and Mata’utia
This week’s Super League Rumour Mill is abuzz with transfer talk about some of the league’s top performers. Warrington is reportedly targeting Josh McGuire as an upgrade while St Helens is yet to decide the fate of their former Samoa international star, Sione Mata’utia. Meanwhile, Hull KR is interested in acquiring another full-back, Josh McAllister.
Adrian Lam Confident of Retaining Leigh Star Lachlan Lam
Leigh boss Adrian Lam is confident of retaining the services of his son and star playmaker, Lachlan Lam, despite his contract coming to an end this season. Adrian, the former Wigan boss, played a crucial role in bringing his son to Leigh midway through last season, which helped the team advance to Super League for 2023.
Despite Lachlan’s desire to return to the NRL at some stage in his career, Adrian remains confident that he will remain a Leigh player in 2024. He said: “I wouldn’t mind him for another year or two, so let’s try to convince him of that before he heads back to the NRL.”
Sione Mata’utia’s Future Uncertain
St Helens’s back-rower Sione Mata’utia is yet to decide on his future. The former Australia and Samoa international has been a consistently solid performer in Super League, but the club’s coach Paul Wellens acknowledges that he will have to decide whether to stay or return to the NRL next year.
Wellens stated that “it is just really important that we, as a team, allow Sione that time. He is a really important, brilliant player and a really respected member of the group.”
Tyler Dupree to Remain with Salford
Salford’s Tyler Dupree, the 23-year-old England international, looks set to stick with the Red Devils until the end of 2025. Despite earlier interest from Hull KR and Wigan, who were both linked to the forward, the club has confirmed that they will not be selling him.
Dan Norman to Join Leigh
St Helens prop Dan Norman looks set to join Leigh for 2024. The Ireland international has featured sparsely for Saints, with only one Super League appearance this season. Norman, a former London Broncos and Widnes forward, has made 15 appearances for the club since his move in 2021.
Josh McGuire’s Future Speculation
Warrington‘s Daryl Powell is considering the player market, and there is growing speculation around Josh McGuire’s future following his 12-match ban. Penrith back-rower Scott Sorensen has been linked to the Wolves, but he has attracted big-money offers from numerous other clubs. Meanwhile, Newcastle Knights are favourites to sign the New Zealand international.
Hull KR Linked with Niall Evalds
Hull KR’s newest signing, Jack Walker, may have to compete for the full-back position with Castleford’s Niall Evalds, who is reportedly of interest to the club. However, the number one shirt is set to go to Peta Hiku, with Lachlan Coote leaving at the end of the year.
Editorial
There has been much talk surrounding some of the Super League’s most prominent players, with many clubs vying for their services. It is a testament to the quality of the competition that such a wealth of talent is available, and the transfer market has been particularly active this season.
However, it is also evident that clubs will have to work doubly hard to retain the services of their star players. It’s important for coaches and team management to remind players that loyalty, teamwork, and dedication are essential ingredients for success – not just for the individual player but also for the team and the competition as a whole.
Advice
While it’s natural for players to want to explore their options and seek higher salaries, it’s important for them to remember the adage that “the grass is not always greener on the other side.” In this case, it’s important for clubs to show their players that they are committed to their development and growth.
The Super League is a highly competitive and exciting rugby league competition. It’s important for players to remember that while money and fame are important, their success is also tied to their team’s success and the success of the league. Hence, players should think carefully before making any rash decisions that could impact not just their careers but the game as a whole.
<< photo by Nicolene Olckers >>
