Leeds Rhinos have turned down an approach from Wakefield Trinity for fullback Luke Hooley. Rugby League Live understands the winless Super League outfit made an enquiry about taking the fullback on a short-term loan, but were ultimately knocked back.
Wakefield have been in search of a fullback since Max Jowitt suffered an ankle injury that is set to keep him out for around another two months. That had seen them turn to Hooley, who made his return to action at the weekend after featuring for the Rhinos' reserve grade side.
Hooley, who himself suffered an ankle injury during the pre-season, signed his first professional contract with Wakefield having joined the club from Bradford Bulls in 2017. His development at Wakefield was managed carefully by current head coach Mark Applegarth, who was working within the youth setup at the time.
Read more: Leeds Rhinos linked with marquee halfback on seven-figure NRL salary
Applegarth is known to be a big fan of Hooley. Speaking about him last year, Batley head coach Craig Lingard said: "I spoke to Mark Applegarth at Wakefield and he was really disappointed that Wakefield let him go as he thought he was a Super League player of the future."
Hooley ultimately went to Batley before securing a move to the Rhinos and despite their efforts to bring him back to the club on loan, Wakefield have been unable to convince Leeds about the move.
Meanwhile, Rohan Smith has suggested a spell in the Championship could be more likely. "Luke came through fine," he said.
"He played the game on Friday against Castleford and he had a good, hard game. It was quite a physical game in muddy conditions. It was a good hit-out that Luke needed. He needs to play more and we're thinking about what the best way forward is there to get some time in Championship and/or the reserves to get him back to full match fitness."
It leaves Wakefield still on the lookout. Efforts to bring in a number of targets have so far been unfruitful but with Lee Gaskell also out of action, their fullback options are limited. Liam Kay has filled in during recent weeks.
The latest House of League is out now. Matthew Shaw is joined by a variety of guests to discuss Kruise Leeming's shock Leeds Rhinos exit, Wakefield Trinity's pitch saga and more. You can listen to the full show below or alternatively subscribe on Spotify, Amazon Music or Apple Music.
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