Blake Austin is on the open market after a wave of negotiations with Leeds Rhinos proved unsuccessful. Rugby League Live revealed on Monday that Austin's agent had offered the halfback to rival clubs with a deal at Headingley still yet to be agreed.
Now, Rugby League Live has learned that the key stumbling block in negotiations has been the length of the contract. Austin's representatives are pursuing a two-year deal for the former NRL halfback, but the Rhinos have only offered a one-year extension. That has proven to be a sticking point in talks and resulted in Austin exploring his options elsewhere.
Leeds are keen for Austin to remain at the club for a third season. Likewise, it is believed that the 32-year-old would like to continue his career at Headingley. But with both sides unable to come to an agreement at this stage, it's unclear what the conclusion of the latest developments will be.
