Leeds Rhinos are at the forefront of bidding for Cronulla Sharks forward Braden Hamlin-Uele, who is set to become a free agent at the conclusion of the 2026 NRL season.
The leaders of the Super League have pointed to the 31-year-old as a likely successor for Mikolaj Oledzki, who will leave Headingley to join the new Perth Bears team next season.
This interest was first reported by Love Rugby League on Saturday, suggesting that Leeds is ahead of competitors like Bradford Bulls, Leigh Leopards, and Warrington Wolves in securing Hamlin-Uele's contract.
Making the move to England would also allow Hamlin-Uele to reunite with his brother, Caleb, who plays for Wakefield Trinity.
Hamlin-Uele's journey in the NRL began with the North Queensland Cowboys, where he debuted in 2017. Yet, that game turned out to be his sole appearance for the Cowboys before moving to Cronulla for the 2018 season.
Since joining the Sharks, he has accumulated 133 matches over nine seasons.
However, his chances this year have been scarce, participating in only two NRL games under coach Craig Fitzgibbon while spending much of the season competing in the NSW Cup. Due to injury challenges, he has made six appearances in reserve-grade this year.
Leeds is strategically positioned to bolster its roster ahead of 2027, aiming to maintain its status among the Super League's finest.
Brad Arthur's squad currently leads the competition standings, boasting a four-point cushion over the second-place team as they pursue the minor premiership.