Arthur's confident over contract deal for versatile veteran Kallum

Leeds Rhinos are close to agreeing a new contract with veteran Kallum Watkins, who will make his 400th career appearance in Saturday's big game against Warrington Wolves.

- by Peter Smith

Watkins rejoined Rhinos from Salford Red Devils two months ago and has been a key figure in their current four-game winning run. The home clash with Warrington will be his 266th in two spells with Leeds and his career tally also includes 96 games with Salford, eight for Gold Coast Titans and 30 England appearances. Watkins is contracted to Leeds until the end of this season and sporting director Ian Blease is lining up a role for him on the backroom staff once he hangs up his boots-but, based on current form, that won't be for another year at least.

"We want Kallum to stay, he wants to stay - I am sure that will get sorted sooner rather than later," coach Brad Arthur said of a playing deal for 2026.