YORK Knights are reportedly in talks with a former Man of Steel and England international for the 2025 season.

After the Betfred Championship play-off final defeat to Wakefield Trinity, Head Coach Mark Applegarth has turned his focus to the 2025 season. 

Following York's 22-13 loss to Wakefield, Applegarth confirmed the departures of five first-team members of his squad upon the conclusion of the season.

Will Jubb, Josh Daley, Nikau Williams, Ronan Michael and AJ Towse have all left for pastures new, with the Knights now in need of recruitment to help build on a memorable 2024 campaign under Applegarth. 

Reports from Yorkshire Live have linked the Knights with former Castleford Tigers hooker Paul McShane, who has left the Betfred Super League outfit after ten years of service to the West Yorkshire side. 

McShane was voted as the Man of Steel in 2020 and earned an England call-up in 2021, making three appearances for his country at the hooker position. 

The 34-year-old began his career with Leeds Rhinos in 2009, and made 63 appearances across four seasons for his hometown club.

Loan spells with Hull FC and Widnes Vikings took place during McShane's time with Leeds, as well as a dual registration deal with Hunslet Hawks in 2013. 

McShane would make the switch to Wakefield Trinity in 2014, before making the move across to Castleford, where he would establish himself as a club legend with the Tigers.

He would go on to feature in the 2017 Grand Final as well as the 2021 Challenge Cup final, whilst also winning the 2017 League Leaders' Shield with Castleford.

His loyalty to the Tigers saw McShane rewarded with the captain's armband in 2022.

Yorkshire Live are reporting that McShane would join York in a dual role as a player and coach, despite previous reports of the hooker being interested in a move across seas to Australia next year.