Wigan Warriors assistant coach Paul Deacon is being strongly linked with a cross code move to the Sale Sharks.

Developments appear imminent on this matter.

Deacon, who is number two to head coach Shaun Wane, could soon be on the move according to rugby union sources.

He is tipped to take on a specific coaching role within the Sharks’ set up.

Deacon mainly works on attack with the Wigan players and is also a kicking coach.

He has a good reputation in the game.

Sale have been linked with Salford’s Iestyn Harris in the past.

Harris was linked with Sale earlier on this season when Tim Sheens arrived from Australia to work with the first team and advise on various football matters.

Ironically, Deacon replaced Harris as the assistant coach at Wigan.

Deacon is a former GB scrum half who made his mark for the Bradford Bulls before joining his hometown team Wigan.

He works closely with Wane but a new challenge may well soon beckon.

If he does join Sale, he will join a high number of rugby league coaches who are now working in the rival code.

Sale have never been reluctant to take on board ideas from league.

Deacon could soon be on his way from Wigan if a settlement can be reached to suit all parties.

On the playing front, Dan Sarginson has again been linked with a move to Australia. Josh Charnley is also understood to have turned down a new deal but ciontract talks are said to be on going with the out of favour England winger.

Meanwhile, conditioner Richard Hunwicks has left Salford to take up the post of head of human performance with the England RL team.

Hunwicks who previously served Leeds Rhinos was brought to Salford by former coach Brian Noble.

He has a good reputation in the game and has greatly enjoyed his time at Salford.

The chance to now work with elite players at international level was too good to turn down.

Hunwicks left Salford after last weekend’s home game with Catalan Dragons.

‘‘I wish the players every success at Salford,’’ says Hunwicks.

‘‘They are a great bunch and it has been a pleasure working with them.

‘‘I am also grateful to Marwan Koukash and Martin Vickers for allowing me this opportunity to now work with England.

‘‘They have been so supportive. I leave so great lads at Salford who are very hard working.

‘‘For me, it was a real pleasure to work with the likes of Gareth Hock, Adrian Morley, Harrison Hansen and Scott Taylor.

‘‘They are great professionals and I have learned from being among them.

‘‘I have a lot of new challenges ahead of me in readiness for England’s internationals with the Kiwis at the end of the year.

‘‘It is going to be a busy time. I have been speaking with Tim Sheens about Salford and am grateful for the experience I gained at the club.’’

Hunwicks has been working hard in rehab and recovery with injured hooker Tommy Lee and believes he can play again this season.