Salford Red Devils Kallum Watkins joins Leeds Rhinos

Salford Red Devils have confirmed that Kallum Watkins has joined fellow Betfred Super League side, Leeds Rhinos for an undisclosed transfer fee.

The Red Devils who are awaiting investor funding, and without a confirmed date for when the transaction will be completed had to make the decision to protect the long-term future. 

The decision was also encouraged with Kallum’s personal request to leave the Red Devils amid the financial issues of the club.

As part of the deal, young back-rower Toby Warren has joined the club from the Rhinos on loan until the end of the 2025 campaign.

Watkins, a boyhood supporter of the club joined the Red Devils in 2020 after a year with the NRL side, Gold Coast Titans.

Before his ventures in Australia, Watkins enjoyed a 12-year stint with the Rhinos, winning six Super League titles, two League Leaders’ Shields, two Challenge Cups and one World Club Challenge.

The centre-turned-back-rower has made ninety-six appearances during his time at Salford, scoring 28 tries and becoming a real leader amongst the group.

Following the departure of Elijah Taylor in 2022, Watkins was named Club captain and was selected in the Super League Dream Team for 2023.

Kallum Watkins was also part of the team that reached the Betfred Challenge Cup final in 2020, starting at centre in our narrow 17-16 defeat at Wembley Stadium.

And following the financial issue of the club at this current time, he has had to make the decision to move away from the club.

Following his decision, Watkins said: “I’d just like to say a massive thank you to all the supporters; the love and support that they have shown over the years has been incredible. Salford is and always will be in my heart.

“A massive thank you to Rowls, Haggs, Krissy and all the staff – it’s been amazing to work with them. They brought back the love of the game for me.

“Also, my teammates, it’s been an incredible journey with this group, so many great memories and moments we’ve had as a group, it’s been an honour to lead the team,” he continued.

“I wish everyone at the Club the best, I hope everything gets resolved, so everyone can move on from this and enjoy the future at the Club.”

The Red Devils will now have to line-up on Thursday 10 April, where they will play against Leeds Rhinos and potentially Watkins – which will be a heartbreaking feature for the home fans.