The Super League transfer market is currently in a state of great activity as clubs are finalizing their plans for the 2025 season. The market for outside backs is particularly active, with a number of significant moves already completed and several more rumored to be in progress.
Recent reports have revealed that several prominent NRL players are now available for transfer. Notably, players such as Ken Maumalo and Maika Sivo are reportedly on the market. In addition, utility back Brent Naden is set to be released by Wests Tigers to alleviate their salary cap pressures.
One player poised to make a move is Euan Aitken, a five-time Scotland international who currently plays for the Dolphins. His contract with the Dolphins is due to expire at the end of the current NRL season, and Aitken is reportedly on the brink of becoming available for a new team.
Previously linked with a move to the Catalans Dragons, recent reports have now provided hints as to where Aitken might play next season.
According to a report by Zero Tackle, it appears unlikely that Aitken will make the move to the Super League for 2025. The report indicates that Aitken is set to join former England head coach Wayne Bennett at the South Sydney Rabbitohs, where he will join forces with Lewis Dodd.
This decision comes after Bennett confirmed his move to the Rabbitohs from the start of 2025, once his deal at the Dolphins expires. With Bennett being replaced by Kristian Woolf at the Dolphins from the beginning of next season, Aitken sought a longer contract than the one-year extension being offered by the NRL’s latest expansion club.
It is believed that Aitken’s desire for a longer deal will see him signing with the Rabbitohs for up to three seasons in order to continue his career, despite interest from Super League clubs.
This development will likely disappoint a number of Super League clubs who were eager to recruit Aitken last year. However, until the transfer is officially announced, there remains a glimmer of hope for those still interested in securing his services.
As the 2024 NRL campaign progresses, the transfer market continues to gather pace and fans can anticipate further thrilling announcements in the lead-up to the 2025 season.
The news of Aitken’s imminent move to the Rabbitohs underscores the fierce competition in the Super League and underscores the growing appeal of the competition to top international players. As clubs endeavor to fortify their squads for the upcoming season, the focus on player transfers will undoubtedly intensify in the coming months.