With most clubs bringing their recruitment to an end for 2016, where does your side’s best signing rank amongst the rest of the competition?
There are still deals being done here and there, but for the most part, a lot of sides are close to finishing their recruitment strategies for next season.
Some clubs have signed a whole host of players, whereas others have strengthened here and there. Over a series of new articles, TotalRL.com will be looking at all 12 Super League clubs and all 12 Championship clubs, weighing up where the best transfers have been done for each club.
Yesterday we looked at one half of Super League from Castleford to Leeds – and now we’re looking at the other half. Agree? Disagree? Be sure to let us know on social media!
Salford – Daniel Vidot (from Brisbane Broncos)
Salford have once again recruited heavily in the transfer market this off-season, but out of all the signings they’ve made so far, we really like the look of Daniel Vidot. The 25-year-old Samoan international is a real powerhouse out wide, as proven by his record in the NRL. He’s actually tried out another sport too, going to America to try his chances at professional wrestling in WWE – and he was actually offered a deal. Will he bring the muscle to Salford in 2016?
St Helens – Lama Tasi (from Salford Red Devils)
St Helens haven’t made too many signings for 2016, but the ones they have made have caught the eye. They’ve signed both Lama Tasi and Theo Fages from Salford Red Devils, and Tasi could prove to be a phenomenal signing. He impressed during a difficult year for the Red Devils in 2015, and he will bring extra firepower to the Saints’ pack as they look to reclaim their Super League title in 2016.
Wakefield – Ben Jones-Bishop (from Salford Red Devils)
Wakefield have signed a lot of players for 2016, which is understandable given how close they came to losing their Super League status in 2015. Players from both Super League and the NRL have arrived to bolster Brian Smith’s squad, but the shrewdest of all those signings looks to be Ben Jones-Bishop. The former Leeds flier will likely play full-back after being handed the number one jersey for next year, and he could be a revelation at the back after several years on the wing. Will he provide a calming influence for Trinity? We think so.
Warrington – Jack Hughes (from Wigan Warriors)
Big names have come through the door at the Halliwell Jones Stadium to try and make Warrington a force again in 2016, and alongside Joe Westerman and existing Wolves star Ben Currie, Jack Hughes could complete an exciting trio of back-row talent. Hughes flourished during his season on loan at Huddersfield last year, and will be a great signing for the Wolves as they look to improve next season. Dynamic and hugely skilful, Hughes’ continuing development is something to watch out for next year.
Widnes – Chris Bridge (from Warrington Wolves)
Widnes didn’t have to look far to bring Chris Bridge in for 2016, getting him from local rivals Warrington on a two-year deal for 2016 and 2017. Bridge will bring experience and class to a youthful and exciting Widnes side, and will also add versatility to the team. Able to play in the halves or in the three-quarters, Bridge’s experience will be crucial for Widnes as they look to avoid a second straight year in The Qualifiers.
Wigan – Sam Tomkins (from New Zealand Warriors)
This one seems fairly straightforward to work out. Wigan haven’t been as active as most clubs in the transfer market, but as well as Willie Isa signing up, the big transfer is of course the return of Sam Tomkins to the DW Stadium in 2016. He won’t play until Easter due to injury, but when he does come back, he’ll be a real asset for the Warriors once again.
