It's fair to say Leeds Rhinos' move for Oliver Gildart has come out of left-field. The centre is set to make a short-term move to the club as the mid-season shuffle at Headingley continues.
The deal makes plenty of sense for Gildart himself. He's fallen out of favour at Wests Tigers and has been training with the reserves. A move gives him the opportunity to play his way into World Cup contention, play top-flight rugby again and leave an organisation where he is not wanted.
But for Leeds, the benefits aren't as obvious. There's no denying they are signing a quality player, his Grand Final rings and international appearances showcase that. But the 25-year-old is believed to have agreed a deal with new NRL club Redcliffe Dolphins for 2023, meaning his stay at Headingley won't be a permanent one.
