The Super League transfer market has showed no signs of slowing down this week, despite the international break. The pause in competition on the field has allowed clubs to focus their attention on matters off-the-field, and put into place their plans for 2025.
A number of Super League clubs are currently scouring the NRL for star overseas signings and the Leigh Leopards and Catalans Dragons have both moved to bring in big NRL names this week, signing David Armstrong and Nick Cotric.
Another name who has been frequently linked with a move to Super League for 2025 is St George Illawarra’s Jack de Belin. De Belin has spent his entire career with the Dragons, representing New South Wales in State of Origin and playing for Papua New Guinea internationally.
Speaking to the West Australian, de Belin has now opened up on his options for 2025 and the likelihood of a move to the Super League.
Jack de Belin, who has been linked to the Leigh Leopards, is out of contract at the end of the season and may leave the Dragons for the first time in his career. Nevertheless, Leigh will have competition as the report states that de Belin has received multiple offers from Super League clubs for 2025. De Belin has now opened up about his future options as he weighs whether to accept a move to Super League.
The Dragons are believed to be keen to keep hold of his, however, a deal is yet to be agreed. Now, speaking in the West Australian, de Belin has admitted that, although his preference is to remain in the NRL, he may move to Super League if no contract offer is forthcoming. De Belin stated:
“It’s nice to know there are options over there (in England),” de Belin said.
“I could go overseas essentially.
“Maybe if I didn’t think I was up to the speed of the NRL any more, or if I didn’t have it in me I could definitely go over there.
“But while I’m still playing at a higher level, a big part of me wants to stay here in the NRL. I don’t think I’m in a position to go yet.”
De Belin disagreement with Dragons over contract length
The disagreement with the Dragons appears to boil down to the length of the contract on offer to de Belin. The Papua New Guinea international is keen to secure a two-year deal, to give him valuable security as he approaches the end of his career.
However, the Dragons appear reluctant to agree to this. According to de Belin, he was hoping to have the deal agreed by now. However, he understands the nature of the business he works in and the need for the club to secure their own interests.
“That’s kind of what the stand-off (with the Dragons) has been,” de Belin said.
“I would prefer to get the two years so I don’t have to go through this whole process again next year.
“I have been at the club for a long time. I feel like they know what kind of player and person I am.
“I was hoping to obtain that, but they have to take care of business, so they must also do what needs to be done.
“I would like to finalize something as soon as possible.”
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