Storm Reacts to Sharks Enforcer’s Potential Move After Star Retirement

Ilias’ horrifying road to recovery | 05:39

The Melbourne Storm have moved swiftly to refute a report linking Sharks forward Tom Hazelton with a move to the club as early as this season as a possible replacement for Christian Welch who was forced to retire effective immediately.

To celebrate Fox League being the only place to watch all 4 games of Rugby League in Vegas live, Kayo Sports is giving away a trip of a lifetime to Sin City! Enter now at kayogreencard.com

Hazelton is off contract at the end of the year and has already been linked with a number of rival clubs, while the Sharks are also keen for him to stay.

The Storm rumour came out of nowhere, with Wide World of Sports suggesting the Storm would chase the try-scoring front-rower given they have a bit of extra spending money following Welch’s retirement.

The article suggested the move could even happen this season, but last year’s grand finalists emphatically shut that down given they already have quality props in Stefano Utoikamanu, Nelson Asofa-Solomona and others.

“Melbourne Storm wishes to clarify media reports published earlier this morning regarding Tom Hazelton,” a club statement read.

“At no stage has the club reached out to Hazelton, his management or the Cronulla Sharks about recruiting the prop to Melbourne.

“The club will be making no further comment.”

MORE NRL NEWS

RED HILL RETURN: Change that had Hunt ‘extremely nervous’ before first day back

‘SO INTENSE’: AFB’s first Sharks impressions as debut looms for game-changer recruit

FLANNO TO CRAWLS: Gutho’s stunning act of leadership, Hunt’s ‘bad habits’

Alex Seyfarth has signed a new three-year deal with the Wests Tigers. Picture: Jason McCawley/Getty ImagesSource: Getty Images

Meanwhile, local junior Alex Seyfarth has agreed to a new deal that will keep him at the Wests Tigers until the end of the 2028 season.

“I’m really pleased and excited to have re-signed with this club, it means a lot to me and my family,” Seyfarth said, with the fiery forward pushing hard for a starting spot this season.

“We have a really great group here.

“I can’t wait to rip in with my teammates for a few more years.”