The Leopards are still looking to add to their squad for the new season.
Leigh Leopards have expressed interest in signing Leeds Rhinos' Derrell Olpherts, Rugby League Live understands. Olpherts' time at Headingley appears to be coming to an end after just one season after the Rhinos made him available for the 2024 season.
And the Leopards are understood to hold some interest in acquiring the 31-year-old as part of their squad preparations for next year, which has seen them add significant depth to their roster ahead of the new campaign. Adrian Lam, who has managed to retain all his prized assets ahead of the news, has rearguarded his squad with young talent but Olpherts has been identified as someone who can provide further competition in the backs.
Beyond that, Olpherts would provide some pace that Leigh perhaps lack on their edges, as well as some strong work in yardage. Olpherts ended the 2022 Super League season with more tackle busts than any other player in the competition. That saw him earn a move from Castleford Tigers to the Rhinos but he endured a difficult year at Headingley, making just 14 appearances.
The Rhinos are now open to an early exit and while a deal with the Challenge Cup holders isn't thought to have been completed, some discussions are thought to have taken place. Leigh are also still pursuing a major halfback for next season. The club had shown interest in both Brodie Croft and Anthony Milford but Croft has now joined Leeds while it has been reported that a deal for Milford has collapsed, which would leave the club needing to consider their options. Olpherts has made 108 Super League appearances, scoring 49 tries. His past clubs include Salford Red Devils and Castleford, as well as the Rhinos.
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