Leeds chief executive Gary Hetherington says he's hopeful the 2018 World Club Challenge has been salvaged, with the Rhinos to play Melbourne at AAMI Park on Friday, February 16.

The date would also allow for the World Club Series to be held next year, as Hull are taking on St George Illawarra and Wigan meet South Sydney the next day at ANZ Stadium.

"While I was in Melbourne last week I had a very positive meeting with Bart Campbell and Dave Donaghy at the Storm," Hetherington told Fairfax Media.

"We had lined up Elland Road to host the game next year because Headingley is undergoing redevelopment work.