
Ian Watson has confirmed Gil Dudson will leave Salford to join Catalans next season.
TotalRL reported last night that the Wales international had signed with the Dragons for 2021 and beyond.
Speaking to the Manchester Evening News, Watson confirmed that the Red Devils had refused Dudson an immediate move to the Dragons before the start of the season, but had given him permission to arrange a move to France next season, before the May 1st date that clubs are normally allowed to speak to players contracted elsewhere.
“Gil has made the decision that he thinks is best for him and his family,” said Watson.
“But what I don’t want is for people to get an opinion that Gil has just decided to up sticks here.
“Gil and his missus came to us and said that they would like to go to Catalans because of the connections and the lifestyle there, but I told Catalans and Gil that we wouldn’t let him leave at this time because it would be too hard to replace him.
“We need someone of his experience at this moment. I asked Gil to commit for this 12 months and to really buy into what we’re doing. Gil’s given us his word that he will buy-in and be committed to Salford until his contract is up at the end of the year.”