Newspaper reports in Australia are linking Leeds Rhinos to a move to sign St George Illawara Dragons and England star half-back Gareth Widdop. It is understood that Gary Hetherington made contact with the highly regarded 26-year-old as the Rhinos supremo looks to replace Kevin Sinfield, after he departs to rugby union at the end of the 2015 season.

Widdop has another two full seasons to run on his contract with the Dragons but there is some speculation that he may be interested in entertaining thoughts of a move.

As he has a young family, it may be that a move half-way around the globe would rule out the deal, but the financial incentive of a decent hike in salary may be enough temptation.

Widdop, who has family in Halifax, was raised in the UK and moved to Australia with his family at the age of fifteen. It is understood that the Rhinos Chief Executive made contact to discuss the potential of a club switch while he was visiting his daughter down under.

If there is any truth to the 'want away' rumours then the Rhinos could be just one team in a long queue of NRL and Super League clubs looking to secure the stars signature.