HULL FC are exploring a permanent move for on-loan forward Ethan O’Neill.

Head coach Andy Last has revealed the club are in discussions with Leeds Rhinos, who signed O’Neill ahead of this season from Leigh Leopards on a three-year deal.

But the Australian has played only four games for Leeds and has been with Hull since May, making five appearances there.

After recovering from a hamstring injury, O’Neill is back in contention to play against York Knights tomorrow night.

Hull hope to keep him on board for the rest of the season, and then beyond.

“I think there have been some talks between both clubs, Ethan and his agent, so that’s something the club is exploring,” said Last.

“He’d be a good fit for us, because he’s a non-(overseas) quota player and he’s versatile – he can play left or right back-rower and centre.”

Last would not commit on whether Hull held any interest in signing Jeremiah Mata’utia, another Leeds loanee who was recalled on Tuesday and has been told he will leave AMT Headingley at the end of the season.

Another player back in contention for the Black and Whites at York is Yusuf Aydin, after the forward completed the six-match ban given for a tip tackle against Bradford Bulls in May.

Last said: “Those six weeks have been long for us as a team. It’s hurt us and Yusuf was hurting to miss some key games.

”We’re really happy to have him back and he looks in great shape. He’s ready to go.

“He’s done a lot of game simulation stuff to keep his match fitness up. He’s participated in 13-on-13 and not interchanged, we’ve left him out for big minutes.

“He’s someone we like because he prides himself on effort areas that are so important in the game.

“We’re looking forward to having him back in the team and contributing on Thursday.”