CANTERBURY BULLDOGS enforcer Luke Thompson is reportedly on the periphery of Cameron Ciraldo’s thinking at Belmore.
With The Mole previously claiming that Wigan Warriors had offered Thompson a four-year deal, it perhaps appears likely that the hulking forward will exit the Bulldogs.
If he returned to Super League, though, where could he hang his hat?
Wigan Warriors
It seems the most obvious choice considering The Mole’s previous report with Wigan also looking likely to lose Brad Singleton to Salford Red Devils. The Warriors are perhaps currently missing the extra grunt up front that Thompson would bring, especially with both Singleton and Mike Cooper now sat on the sidelines. Thompson’s barnstorming runs would provide the field position necessary for the likes of Jai Field and Bevan French to run riot. It would definitely be a statement signing from Wigan.
Warrington Wolves
The lure of the Warrington club continues to increase following a brilliant start to the 2023 Super League season which sees Daryl Powell’s men currently sitting in second. That being said, the Wolves have lost Thomas Mikaele to the Gold Coast Titans due to family circumstances whilst Gil Dudson has been both injured and banned this season along with Josh McGuire. It’s clear that Powell has cemented his game plan on forging a clear path through the middle and Thompson would definitely be an asset in this regard.
St Helens
Could Thompson return to the club where he made his name? Between 2013 and 2020, Thompson made over 150 appearances for St Helens, winning two Grand Finals in the process before leaving midway through the 2020 Super League season to join current club Canterbury in the NRL. The 27-year-old could also be lured by the opportunity to work with Paul Wellens – a man who he played alongside during his time in the UK.
Catalans Dragons
Catalans are in a bit of an unusual situation with regards that two of their main hitters – Michael McIlorum and Sam Tomkins – will retire at the end of the season whilst Mitchell Pearce is being linked with a return to the NRL. That would leave the Dragons with considerable cap space to work with and Thompson would not be a far-off dream. Perhaps the lure of leaving Australia for the south of France would be greater than returning to the UK.
Hull FC
One out of left field, but if anyone can afford Thompson then it is Hull FC. With a whole host of players out of contract at the end of the 2023 season, could the Black and Whites make a play for the England international? Tony Smith’s men have seriously lacked grunt and power up front so far and Thompson would play his part in ensuring quick rucks for the likes of Jake Clifford to play off. The signing would also epitomise Hull’s spending power, with Chris Satae already confirmed to be leaving the MKM Stadium.
