A move with some substance.
Hull FC have shown previous interest in Catalans centre Solomona Faataape.(Image: SW PIX)
Andy Last remained coy when asked about a potential swap deal between Hull FC and Catalans Dragons for players Amir Bourouh and Solomona Faataape, stating that he isn’t aware of any conversations.
Reports first emerged on Wednesday via Love Rugby League that Catalans, now coached by former Hull boss John Cartwright, are interested in signing Hull hooker Bourouh, who still has one year to run on his current contract.
The understanding is that the Black and Whites, who ironically have signed Catalans dummy-half Alrix Da Costa for the 2027 season, would be open to the deal, but only if they got something in return.
The player they want is Faataape, and it’s not the first time the club has shown an interest in him. In fact, Hull looked at signing the 25-year-old last season (before the Perpignan-based club snapped him up) but ultimately went in a different direction.
But that interest is understood to still be there, and Hull would entertain a move should the right formalities present themselves.
Asked by Hull Live about interest in Faataape, Last confirmed the club’s previous stance. He said: “We looked at him. We saw some footage of him at the Wests Tigers and we did have a look at him last year.”
Pushed why Hull didn’t pursue him, Last then continued: “You’ll have to ask Richie (Myler, CEO), or Carty. We knew of him, but I haven’t had those conversations with regard to why we didn’t pursue him.”
Meanwhile, Catalans’ interest in Bourouh makes sense. Cartwright is a big fan of the hooker and regularly defended him while Hull coach.
“It’s one for Carty as to why he might be looking at Amir,” Last said. “Amir is someone who I like. He’s a good player. He’s been strong for us and his form has been good.
“He’s had some run threat over the last few weeks and he’s been available on a weekly basis for us. He’s not missed many games. He’s a good player and he’s contracted to us until the end of next season. I’m sure as and when more information is available later on, the club will get that out, but I haven’t had any conversations in regards to Amir or Faataape.”