Probably because he was playing Rugby Union for two years.

What's he's been doing last 3 and a half years then. Melbourne have a great system but they don't have the best forward pack by a long stretch and he can't get in that squad.

If we have signed him, lets hope its not a case of getting somebody just slightly better than what we already have, as its not exactly a high bar.

I don’t know as I don’t watch much NRL these days.

He’s not even been linked with us properly so you don’t need to write him off just yet, maybe wait til he’s actually signed but not pulled on a jersey before doing that.

But in general the days of any SL club signing top rate first choice NRL players in his age bracket are long gone.

Assuming we can't sign megastars from the NRL we'll have to trust that Arthur knows who will go well in SL.

There needs to be some understanding of what players are realistically going to be available from the NRL in terms of potential incoming forwards to Leeds. Along with half backs props command the biggest salaries in the NRL. As such the ones available will be one of the following. Top quality 33-35 years old looking for one last challenge or pay day Eg Burgess and JWH.
Young not played much in NRL looking to build career and get an NRL contract. Eg Tom Amone.
Late 20 early 30s not a first choice starter but played decent number of games looking for 3 year contract and more game time.
Leeds should be in for either of the second 2 and its then its about selecting the right players with the attributes that you need.

Whose to say he isn't Martin's replacement?

If we're in for Jake Connor, maybe players in the mould of Julian O'Neill, Greg Bird and Todd Carney will be on the cards