Hull KR lead race for Hull FC prop Jack Brown with boyhood Robin chased in cross-city switch

Hull KR are closing in on the signing of boyhood Robin Jack Brown from cross-city rivals Hull FC. Rugby League Live understands Rovers have identified the prop as part of their evolving 2025 recruitment plans and are leading the chase for his signature.

Brown, who grew up supporting Rovers, is off-contract at the end of the season and the Robins have made a play to secure his services ahead of next year. Their move comes at a time when George King's future at the club appears increasingly likely to come to an end, with the Ireland international in discussions to join his hometown club, Huddersfield Giants, next year.

Brown has been linked with a move to east Hull for a number of years but it now appears that move might finally happen. Rovers appeared to be settled in the pack for next year, with Jared Waerea-Hargreaves coming in while Matty Storton has been linked with a move to Wakefield Trinity. But developments surrounding King's future have resulted in them returning to the market and identifying Brown as a player they want in their squad next year.

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It was revealed last month that Brown was heading to the open market and Rovers have wasted little time. Two other clubs are known to have shown interest, but it's the Robins who are now in the driving seat.

He was 18 when he made his debut for the Black and Whites and has gone on to make 65 Super League appearances for the club since. He had an excellent 2022 season before a frustrating campaign last year. In 2024, he has made eight appearances for Hull FC so far.

Rovers aren't likely to be overly active on the recruitment front having already signed Waerea-Hargreaves and Jack Broadbent, with the latter's loan move to become permanent next season. They do have eleven players currently off-contract at the end of the season but the Robins aren't blessed with salary cap space.

As for Hull FC, it's anticipated that they will be one of the most active clubs in Super League when it comes to recruitment next year. Richie Myler has arrived as the club's Director of Rugby and is being tipped to oversee a major squad overhaul in an attempt to get the club up and running after a string of disappointing seasons. Brown's departure will not be the only one, with Cam Scott expected to sign for Wakefield Trinity. Beyond that, Nu Brown and Tex Hoy have already left mid-season, meaning they have two quota spots at their disposal.