Oli Partington lined up by Super League club as Salford Red Devils move to retain

[josie andrews]

Exclusive: One of Super League's major clubs has launched a move to sign the former Wigan Warriors forward.

Catalans Dragons have identified Salford Red Devils forward Oli Partington as one of their key transfer targets ahead of the 2025 season. Rugby League Live can reveal the French club are chasing the 25-year-old, who is off-contract until the end of the season.

The Dragons have identified Partington as a player who would help fill the void that is set to be left by Mike McMeeken, with the England forward expected to leave the club at the end of the season. Wakefield Trinity are believed to be the frontrunner to secure his signature.

Partington has established himself as a proven performer at Super League level, having impressed while representing both Salford and Wigan Warriors. The forward has made 106 Super League appearances in his career and has Grand Final experience, having represented the Warriors in 2020.

Salford, who are thought to be aware of Catalans' interest, are believed to have launched a play to retain Partington by offering him a new contract. However, there is an expectation that he will make the move to Perpignan next season.

Sam Tomkins has taken on an active role within the Dragons' recruitment business and hasn't wasted any time settling into the role. Catalans are also keen on securing a deal for St Helens winger Tommy Makinson next year, a player Tomkins knows well from his playing days. The Dragons are expected to lose Tom Johnstone, also to Wakefield, while Tom Davies is understood to have interest from Hull KR about a move to the club next season.

Partington is currently dealing with an ankle injury and is out of action, but the forward is seen as a key player within Paul Rowley's squad and the club managed to retain him in the off-season, despite strong interest from Warrington Wolves. At the age of 25, Partington still has his best years ahead of him and the Dragons are keen to ensure they are spent in Perpignan.

https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/ru ... s-28800366