The National Rugby League's chief executive Andrew Abdo has rejected concerns that a potential multi-million pound investment into Super League would drain talent from the UK game. Abdo, who has been in the UK holding talks with British officials, insists the goal is to strengthen rugby league in Europe, not create a feeder system for the NRL.

Leeds Rhinos chairman Paul Caddick has warned against the investment, arguing it could make the UK game subservient to Australia. Caddick questioned the motives behind the deal, saying 'we have no intention of being swallowed up.' The NRL is seeking a partnership rather than a takeover, with Abdo emphasizing the need for strong governance and assurances that investment would benefit the entire sport, including women's and wheelchair games.

While attendances and audiences have increased, Super League clubs are losing almost £20m per year. The NRL wants to replicate its independent governance model in the UK, but Super League's Rhodri Jones has described this as a 'red line' that needs negotiation. With both competitions negotiating new broadcast deals and planning for the 2027 season, Abdo says a deal 'needs to happen relatively quickly' in the coming weeks.