Leeds Rhinos are being linked with a move for French international Mickael Goudemand. L'Indépendant reports that the Rhinos have set their sights on the prop ahead of the 2024 season.
Goudemand is understood to have rejected a contract with the Perpignan club having grown frustrated at Stade Gilbert Brutus and his future does appear to be away from France. Now, it is the Rhinos who are reportedly keen on his services as Rohan Smith looks to enhance his back.
The 27-year-old has made 86 Super League appearances for Catalans, where he has spent the entirety of his professional career. He was part of the Dragons side that won the 2018 Challenge Cup Final and has been a mainstay since debuting against the Rhinos in 2018.
But now his future lies elsewhere and with Leeds interested, the Rhinos may well land their first signing of the 2024 season. He would link up with another Frenchman, Justin Sangare, if he made the move to Headingley.
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The reasons for Goudemand's decision to leave Catalans are unclear but it's a clear change from the norm for the Dragons to lose one of their domestic talents. The decision is understood to have caught out the Dragons, who are now planning accordingly. He has played in 12 of the club's 16 Super League games so far this season.
Goudemand could act as a direct replacement for Sam Walters, the young forward who will join Wigan Warriors next season. Walters scored twice for the Rhinos in the win over Huddersfield Giants but will depart after turning down a new deal.
The Rhinos are also thought to be on the lookout for spine players next year, with centre and back-row other areas of interest.
