Widnes sign Weller Hauraki on loan as Ed Chamberlain and Greg Burke join Salford in swap deal

Widnes interim head coach Francis Cummins has made former Leeds and Castleford forward Weller Hauraki his first signing.

The 33-year-old Hauraki has joined Widnes on a season-long loan deal from Salford, who have signed centre Ed Chamberlain and prop Greg Burke in exchange.

The three players could face their old clubs when Salford host Widnes in the Super League next Thursday.

Chamberlain, who played for Ireland at the 2017 World Cup, and former Wigan forward Burke, are both out of contract with the Vikings at the end of the season and have signed permanent deals for the Red Devils from the 2019 season.

Hauraki, a back-rower who joined Salford's captaincy group at the start of the season, has a wealth of experience, having started out in the NRL with Parramatta in 2007.

He will fill the void created by Hep Cahill, who suffered a season-ending Achilles injury in the Vikings' last match against Wakefield.

Cummins, who has been placed in temporary charge following the sacking of Denis Betts, said: "We are excited to be able bring someone of Weller's ability into the team.

"He'll give us a real lift, add threat to the team and improve our competition for places.

"Throughout this season, with injuries, we haven't always had the opportunity to draw on our most senior and experienced players, who are able to guide the team. There are no doubts that Weller will offer real leadership and direction for the team.

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"At this stage of the season, tough decisions need to be made. We've looked at our priorities and decided that the exchange for Ed and Greg, who would be moving on at the end of this season, is the right decision.

"I hope that this is a good opportunity for both players and would like to thank them for their contributions to the Vikings."

Salford coach Ian Watson said: "Weller has been an important member of our squad over the past few seasons and has proven to be an asset both on and off the field.

"All the players and staff would like to wish him all the best for the future. The opportunity which has arisen has seen us gain two young British players in exchange for Weller and this is a massive lift to our squad at this crucial juncture of the season.

"Ed is an outside back which is an area we have been short in this season and his arrival will only stiffen up the competition within the outside backs.

"Greg is a player who has competed at the highest level when coming through the ranks at Wigan Warriors and will add much-needed steel to our forward pack.

"He has led Widnes' pack over the last few seasons in a dominant and intimidating fashion."