Written by Oliver Kellner-Dunk
It was revealed during the 2021 NRL season that Canberra Raiders captain Josh Hodgson told the club that if he was not in their plans, and if they were not looking to utilise him beyond his current contract which is up at the end of next season, that he would happily leave, leading to speculation as to his future.
Hodgson was then linked with a move to the Broncos, with theories that he may simply opt to move back to England and play in Super League; however, The Sydney Morning Herald’s Michael Chammas is reporting that the Wests Tigers are looking to sign Hodgson effective immediately.
“The Wests Tigers are closing in on a major recruitment coup, set to offer Canberra hooker, Josh Hodgson, a two-year deal to join the club immediately,” said Chammas
“While Hodgson still has one more year to run on his contract with the Raiders, Canberra have given the England international permission to negotiate with the Tigers for 2022 and beyond.
“The Raiders recently informed Hodgson that he would not be offered a new deal at the club beyond next season, opting to offer young hooker Tom Starling an extension instead.
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Wests Tigers in discussions to sign Josh Hodgson immediately.
Raiders have given him permission to negotiate for 2022. Tigers set to offer two year deal.https://t.co/eFS3nguD6A
— Michael Chammas (@MichaelChammas) October 14, 2021
“The club has also indicated that they would be happy for him to see out his final year in the nation’s capital.
“The Tigers are desperate to land a major blow in the recruitment market, with coach Michael Maguire leading the charge to add the crafty hooker to his young side.
“Hodgson is on a deal believed to be worth almost $900,000 at the Raiders next year.
“The Tigers won’t pay for his entire salary and will have to strike a deal with Canberra to determine how much the Raiders are willing to contribute.
“The deal could fall over if the clubs cannot agree to a deal.”
Hodgson has consistently been one of the NRL’s best hookers since joining the Raiders in 2015, but 2021 was not one of his finest years, as Canberra missed the finals for the first time since 2017, which was reflected in his form.
Although, there were reported issues going on behind the scenes between coach Ricky Stuart and his players which would have certainly been a contributing factor.
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