Broncos linked with move to sign Pongia

London Broncos are reported in Australia to have signed one of the world's leading prop forwards, the former New Zealand captain, Quentin Pongia.

The Sydney City front-row man has revealed that he has opted to join the Broncos rather than the Australian club, Manly, and is said to have agreed a two-year deal. The Broncos have admitted talking to Pongia, but Tony Rea, their coach, said yesterday that he was unaware of any deal being completed.

Even at 32, Pongia would be a major acquisition. At international level, Pongia has been a cornerstone of the New Zealand pack. He missed much of last season through injury, but, provided he is fully fit for 2002, could be just the sort of commanding presence that could help London re-establish themselves as a force in Super League after a troubled year.

London have released several of last season's pack and were previously keen on signing the Rochdale Hornets prop, Danny Sculthorpe, but he opted instead to join Wigan.

Meanwhile, the unanswered question of where they will play next season, after being shown the door by their former landlords at Charlton Athletic, could drag on into the new year. Two lower division football grounds – Orient and Brentford – are thought to be the favoured options.

Leeds and Bradford have both reported a surge in season ticket sales which they attribute to their recruitment for next season. The champions Bradford say they are in line for a new record, with their fans eager to see Pongia's Kiwi team-mate Lesley Vainikolo, who will make his debut in the World Club Championship against the Newcastle Knights on 1 February.