Leeds Rhinos have opened discussions with Batley Bulldogs fullback Luke Hooley about a move to the club. Rugby League Live understands the 23-year-old has caught the eye of head coach Rohan Smith, who met Hooley late last week.
Though no deal is currently thought to be on the table, the Rhinos are expected to table a contract offer for the former Bradford Bulls youngster, who is off-contract at the end of the year. Hooley has commanded interest from other clubs in the Championship but the Rhinos' interest has seen a move to Headingley become a possibility.
Hooley has been one of the Championship's best young players for the past two years. He has been a key cog in a Batley side that has punched above its weight, with the Bulldogs reaching the play-off semi-finals last year and currently third in the Championship this term.
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Last year he scored nine tries in 20 appearances and has hit new heights this term, scoring an impressive 15 tries in 21 appearances so far this season. Predominantly a fullback, Hooley can also play on the wing. Days after meeting up with the Rhinos, he scored at Headingley in Batley's big Summer Bash victory over rivals Dewsbury Rams.
That said, a deal is far from a formality. As is the case with most part-time players, they have jobs away from rugby and can make more money remaining outside of Super League by combining their job with rugby. Leeds would likely see Hooley as a player they could sign on low value but that could leave Hooley financially out of pocket.
Hooley started at Bradford but their financial issues saw him depart and make the move to Wakefield in 2017. He was handed a professional contract with Trinity but a breakthrough never came, which resulted in him joining Batley in 2020. Since then, he has gone from strength to strength.
The Rhinos are making changes to their squad for next year. They have confirmed the signings of James McDonnell and Justin Sangare and are understood to be chasing Castleford Tigers winger Derrell Olpherts. Meanwhile, the likes of Brad Dwyer and Muizz Mustapha are leaving, with the likes of Tom Briscoe also expected to leave.
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