Leeds Rhinos still hope to keep Zak Hardaker at the club in 2023. Head coach Rohan Smith confirmed at his pre-match press conference that he held talks with the centre as recently as Wednesday lunchtime, with all parties still hoping a deal can be struck.
Hardaker rejoined Leeds on an initial short-term deal from Wigan Warriors midway through this season. He has played an important role in helping them reach the Super League play-offs, where they will look to keep their season alive this weekend courtesy of victory in Perpignan against Catalans Dragons.
The player himself has spoken of his desire to remain in West Yorkshire with the Rhinos, telling Rugby League Live earlier this summer he hoped to convince the club he was worthy of an extension to his short-term contract.
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And Smith told Rugby League Live on Wednesday: "There's been lots of conversations, we actually held one about five minutes ago about what I know of the situation. We hope that we can get something worked out but there's some time constraints we have to work to, too."
Hardaker is likely to assume the goal-kicking duties for Leeds' biggest game of the season this weekend, with regular goal-kicker Rhyse Martin ruled out due to suspension.
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