Salford coach responds after Leeds Rhinos linked with signing his player

Salford Red Devils assistant coach Krisnan Inu has addressed reports linking the club’s captain, Kallum Watkins, with a move to Leeds Rhinos.

Following Salford’s 22-16 victory over Leeds Rhinos, where Watkins scored twice, The Daily Mirror reported that Leeds were “keen” on re-signing their former player for the 2025 season. However, Love Rugby League clarified that no official approach had been made, and Salford expressed no interest in letting Watkins go.

Head coach Paul Rowley praised Watkins after the match, stating, “Since I’ve been at this club I’ve never come across a player to have a bigger influence on other players than Kallum Watkins. We all feel privileged to work alongside Kallum. He was fantastic today and absolutely deserved the man of the match.”

 

Ahead of Salford’s game against St Helens, Inu dismissed the Leeds Rhinos links, saying, “I literally heard about it two minutes ago before coming here. I’ve heard nothing of it.” He labeled the reports as “rumors” meant to unsettle Watkins, adding, “He’s the captain of our club and I don’t see him going anywhere anytime soon.”

 

If Watkins were to return to Leeds, he would join former teammate Ryan Hall, who has signed with the club for the 2025 season. However, with Watkins contracted to Salford until the end of 2025 and Inu firmly rejecting the reports, it appears Watkins will see out his contract at Salford. His strong performances this season, having played in all 20 of Salford’s games, make a compelling case for a potential contract extension.

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