Castleford Tigers are on the verge of signing Leeds Rhinos youngster Muizz Mustapha. Rugby League Live understands the Tigers are close to completing a deal for the compact forward, who has not been offered a new deal at Headingley for next season.
Mustapha, who scored a great solo try in Leeds' recent victory over Wigan Warriors, has struggled for game time at the Rhinos during the early stages of his career. He spent last season on loan at Hull Kingston Rovers before returning to Leeds this year.
However, Rohan Smith confirmed last month that Mustapha had been allowed to pursue deals elsewhere with his contract set to expire at the end of the season. "We haven't made Muzzy an offer," Smith confirmed. "He's free to explore his options there. It's always a moving thing the roster, but at this point we haven't made him an offer."
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That has seen the Tigers swoop and make a move for the 22-year-old, who was born in Nigeria. Castleford, who are believed to have also signed Rhinos youngster Jack Broadbent, have been looking to finalise their recruitment for next year with the likes of Jacob Miller and Gareth Widdop also expected to join the club. Another Leeds Rhinos player, Alex Mellor, has already linked up with the club having initially agreed to sign for 2023.
Leeds have signed James McDonnell from Wigan Warriors ahead of next season which will help combat the loss of Mustapha, who will now get another opportunity at the Jungle. Cheyse Blair has often been used in the pack this year but will be released at the end of the season. Mustapha will help cover the Australian's departure as he pursues more regular first-team action.
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