BY JOHN DAVIDSON

St Helens are set to sign Salford Red Devils outside back Deon Cross for £30,000.

rugbyleaguehub.com Long Reads understands the two clubs have are close to agreeing a fee for the transfer of the centre.

It is believed Saints had been holding off on completing the deal until Salford’s April payroll was due. If the payroll was late again, Cross would have become a free agent.

But the Red Devils’ payroll arrived on time yesterday and the transfer is now expected to be completed soon.

The 28-year-old has not played or trained with Salford since the Challenge Cup defeat to Catalans in early April.

Red Devils coach Paul Rowley told reporters yesterday that the club had received a sick note from the outside back.

“It’s not direct to me there,” Rowley said.

“So, I’m only getting that news second-hand. But as far as I’m aware, you know, he’s not available.

“There’s a sick note gone in. So, yeah, he’s not here and that’s about all I need to know.”

Cross hails from St Helens and started his career with the club in its scholarship program at the age of 16.

He moved on to Rochdale and then Widnes, before joining Salford in 2022.