Zak Hardaker’s Leeds career looks set to be over after he was transfer listed by the Super League champions.
Hardaker played a crucial role in Leeds’ treble-winning campaign last season but he has failed to recapture the same form in 2016 – and now appears to be heading to the NRL.
Several Australian clubs, including Canberra Raiders, are already understood to have expressed interest in the England international, who has been valued at £300,000 by the Rhinos.
The Leeds chief executive, Gary Hetherington, said: “We have agreed with Zak that the opportunity to continue his career at another club is in both parties’ best interests.
“Zak has established his credentials as a world-class player and, at the age of 24, he has so much to look forward to. He has given great service to the Rhinos as a fullback, winger and centre and he will remain part of our squad until a transfer is agreed. I have no doubt he will continue to give his best as he always does.”
Hardaker said: “I explained my desire to leave and test myself in the NRL to Gary several weeks ago and I am pleased the club is prepared to release me. I have had five great years here and have had so many wonderful times. I will continue to help the team whilst I am here but I am also excited with what the future may hold for me.”
Brian McDermott, the Leeds coach, said: “Zak is a special talent and a fierce competitor who will do well wherever he plays. We won’t be quite the same without him, but we’ve come to this decision and he will leave with our best wishes.”
