A lot of talk around Leeds Rhinos transfer business at present has centred around Oliver Gildart but today it has been confirmed that a different player will be joining the club.
That player is Wakefield’s Yusuf Aydin with Trinity confirming he has joined the club on a two-week loan deal the first time Leeds have made a move of this kind this season despite the fact this kind of transfer has been threaded into the rules of the competition over the last two seasons and has been used by many clubs.
Aydin is only 21 and has played for Wakefield since 2020 when he made his debut at 19. He has reached double figures in terms of appearances and is a Turkey international ironically as is one Leeds star in the shape of Aidan Sezer.
A natural prop, he is a necessary signing for the Rhinos who only have one specialised prop left in the squad with Matt Prior, Zane Tetevano, Tom Holroyd and Muizz Mustapha all suspended.
It is unlikely that he will remain at the club beyond the two weeks but never say never. At 21, he fits the mould of player Rohan Smith wants to sign with the former Bradford boss keen to develop young players.
He’s had loan spells at York and Sheffield and will wear the number 34 shirt last worn by Jack Broadbent in 2020.
Speaking on the Rhinos website, Aydin said: “The lads have been great in welcoming me into the Rhinos camp.
“There is an opportunity here for me and I will be doing everything I can to make the most of it.”
He’ll feature in Rohan Smith’s 21-man squad for the game in Toulouse.
Verdict
This is a necessary signing and a welcome boost after failed appeals after Matt Prior’s and Harry Newman’s suspensions.
It fills a void in the Rhinos side ahead of a crucial game in Toulouse where an extra prop was a necessity with so many suspended and with the Rhinos set to play in sweltering conditions.
He’ll also ensure Smith doesn’t have to rely on players who are not fully fit which may have been the case at the Magic Weekend with Zak Hardaker.
It’ll be interesting to see if this decision delays Oliver Gildart’s move with the salary cap repercussions.