Salford City Reds sign up seven players in the wake of their takeover

Martin Gleeson is one of a host of players to have joined Salford

Salford City Reds have confirmed seven new signings in the wake of the takeover by millionaire Marwan Koukash.

The businessman, who also owns a host of racehorses, ended the Reds' financial uncertainty by purchasing the club from long-serving chairman John Wilkinson in a deal confirmed on Thursday.

That news has been quickly followed by an influx of players, which includes two-year contracts for England RL star Martin Gleeson and former Castleford Tigers half-back Ryan McGoldrick.

Wigan Warriors full-back Jack Murphy and Warrington Wolves centre Rhys Williams have joined up on two-month loan contracts, while former South Sydney half-back Connor Higgins comes in on a trial basis.

"Our work has also begun recruiting for 2014, 2015 and 2016 and it is our intent to strengthen the squad to the point where we are competing for trophies and titles as soon as possible."
Phil Veivers

Overseas recruitment is also underway, with the Reds confirming the captures of two NRL imports from the Manly Sea Eagles in forward Vic Mauro and half-back Liam Foran, who is expected to become the team's playmaker.

Reds head coach Phil Veivers said: "We've made a good start here, and recruitment for this season will continue beyond these players - we have moved mountains to get these deals done, but we're not done yet.

"Our work has also begun recruiting for 2014, 2015 and 2016 and it is our intent to strengthen the squad to the point where we are competing for trophies and titles as soon as possible."

Salford open their Super League season on Friday night with a home clash against last season's League Leaders' Shield winners Wigan Warriors.