Bradford Bulls have issued a hands-off warning to their Super League rivals, insisting “no-one is for sale” following recent speculation linking Garreth Carvell with a move to Hull FC.
A club statement said: “We are shocked and disappointed by some of the comments made today regarding one of our players.
“To say we are baffled by talk that another club is ‘monitoring’ an ‘on-going contract situation’ would be an understatement.
“We can confirm that no form of deal has been sanctioned by the board of directors.
“Recent reports have and are continuing to cause major confusion and distress among our supporters, while undermining our efforts to re-build this club – with extremely limited resources.
“Agents and clubs need also to be mindful of the confusion and distress in which these kinds of approaches can cause for players and their families.
“We are operating with only half of the central funding provided for our Super League rivals and we have been through a very difficult time.
“Our message is very, very clear: Leave our team alone. No-one is for sale.
“The announcement to ring-fence of our first-team squad last week was designed to create some stability for the players, while offering Francis the support he requires as head coach.
“It was about consolidation, as we want to keep what we have very much intact ahead of the new season to give both fans and all other stakeholders clarity.
“We are not foolish enough to believe that talks do not go on between players and clubs during a season, but they must happen in an appropriate manner and at an appropriate time.
“And we would ask all clubs to act in a right and proper manner, in keeping with the family spirit of rugby league.”
Directors and HR representatives are to meet with the Bulls squad later today in a bid to once again outline the players’ contractual position.
