Jack Ashworth’s future will be decided imminently, with four clubs battling it out to earn his signature.
League Express understands the prop will make a decision on his future in the coming days and he will either re-sign with St Helens or take up a contract at Castleford, Huddersfield or Hull FC next season.
Several other Super League clubs, including Salford and Warrington, had also shown interest in capturing the in-demand 24-year-old.
But it’s believed the chase is now down to four and a decision is expected very soon.
The Tigers have been strongly linked with the Rochdale-born star and they were the early favourites for Ashworth’s signature, having signed his former team-mate Danny Richardson before the start of the season.
However, there is a concern at The Jungle they could miss out on the sought-after talent to the Giants.
Ashworth has proven to be the most in-demand off-contract player in Britain after helping Saints win the Super League title last year. He made 29 appearances and played in the Grand Final as they defeated Salford.
St Helens have offered him a new contract, but there’s a feeling across Super League circles that he is likely to move on at the end of the year.
Since making his debut as a 19-year-old, Ashworth’s reputation has steadily grown. Spells in the lower leagues with Leigh, Sheffield and hometown club Rochdale have all complimented his time in the Saints team. He’s made almost 50 appearances in the Red Vee to date.
Castleford have already made one signing for next year in Niall Evalds, but more are expected to follow. Ashworth has been highlighted as a key target, but the Tigers could yet miss out on him.
