Former Eels coach Brad Arthur has reportedly signed a short-term contract with the Leeds Rhinos in the Super League ahead of a potential NRL return.
According to The Daily Telegraph, Arthur’s new deal sees him take the reins in Leeds for only 14 weeks, replacing Rohan Smith.
Arthur was reportedly tabled a longer contract but turned it down as he has aspirations to be the Perth Bears first coach, with the 18th franchise set to be announced in the coming weeks.
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The 50-year-old’s wife is originally from Perth and Arthur reportedly has only accepted the short deal so he can return to Australia to begin planning for his new role.
Arthur has reportedly already been approached by officials of the potential 18th franchise, discussing the potential role.
In what would be a huge move, Arthur is expected to target Eels five-eighth Dylan Brown as the club’s marquee signing.
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The gun No.6 has several clauses in his contract, with the first meaning he could become a free agent next year,
At the Rhinos Arthur will be coaching former NRL players Brodie Croft, Paul Momirosvki and Lachie Miller amongst others.
The Bears are reportedly set to return to the NRL in 2027, with North Sydney officials wanting a single game to be played at the famous North Sydney Oval.