Widnes Vikings are preparing for an important off-season as they look to strengthen their squad ahead of the 2026 campaign. One name now being linked with the club is Bradford Bulls forward Matty Gee.
The 30-year-old has emerged as a potential signing target despite still having a year left on his current deal at Odsal. Having impressed in Bradford colours throughout 2025, Gee’s experience and work rate in the back-row make him a valuable option as Widnes seek to rebuild following several key departures.
Gee joined Bradford at the start of the 2025 season on a two-year deal, becoming a regular fixture in their Championship campaign. His performances have not gone unnoticed, with several clubs understood to be monitoring his situation. The Wigan-born forward featured in the Bulls’ semi-final defeat to Toulouse Olympique, showcasing his ability in both attack and defence. That result set up a Championship Grand Final showdown between York Knights and Toulouse, but attention around Gee’s future has continued to grow as clubs weigh up potential moves.
Discussions around Gee’s next destination have also caught the eye of supporters and punters. Online betting markets have reacted quickly, with odds shifting as speculation builds. Fans looking at sports betting not on gamstop have already seen markets forming around possible transfers in the Championship and Super League. In some cases, Gee has even been priced among potential standout forwards for 2026, reflecting how betting platforms now track transfer activity alongside on-field performances. This growing link between recruitment news and betting activity highlights how online engagement continues to shape the modern rugby league landscape.
Gee’s playing history reflects the sort of background that could appeal to Widnes. He has featured in the Super League with clubs including Salford Red Devils, London Broncos, Hull KR and Leigh Leopards, gaining the kind of experience that makes him a reliable option across different forward positions. During his spell at Halifax Panthers, he added a notable achievement to his career by helping the side secure the AB Sundecks 1895 Cup in 2023, edging past Batley Bulldogs in a tight Wembley final. That combination of versatility and a proven ability to deliver on big occasions could be valuable for a Widnes side determined to climb back towards the top level of the sport.
The need for reinforcements at the DCBL Stadium has become clear. Long-serving back-rower Rhodri Lloyd brought his career to a close at the end of the 2025 season, leaving a leadership gap within the squad. Additionally, prop forward Gavin Bennion has moved on to North Wales Crusaders, joined by half-back Dec Patton. With Brett Bailey also departing, and Ben Condon attracting interest from Catalans Dragons, there is a clear need for fresh energy in the forward pack. Gee’s availability may provide the Vikings with an ideal solution to fill those gaps.
Supporters will also recognise that the Vikings’ recruitment drive reflects an ambition to compete at the top end of the Championship in 2026. Widnes are keen to avoid another mid-table finish and see themselves pushing for promotion. Adding a player of Gee’s calibre could provide both stability and an edge in big matches. His tackling ability, combined with strong carries and a high work rate, aligns with the type of aggressive, hard-working pack that the club’s coaching staff want to build.
As with any potential transfer, timing will be crucial. Gee still has a year left on his Bradford deal, meaning negotiations will likely involve either a release agreement or a financial arrangement between the clubs. Bradford may be reluctant to lose one of their consistent performers, particularly after reaching the play-off semi-finals in 2025. However, the Championship is known for its fluid player market, and players with Super League experience are always in high demand when clubs set out their off-season strategies.
The Vikings’ recruitment push is not limited to Gee, but his name stands out because of his proven pedigree. At 30, he brings maturity and leadership qualities, while still having the physicality to make a strong impact over the course of a long season. For Widnes, building a squad with both youth and experience is essential, and Gee could fit into a balanced forward unit that combines fresh energy with seasoned know-how. The coming weeks may prove decisive in determining whether a deal can be finalised.
For Gee himself, a move to Widnes would offer a new challenge and the opportunity to play in front of a passionate fanbase. The Vikings have always prided themselves on their community connection and strong supporter base, qualities that can appeal to players who value tradition as much as ambition. With the club focused on progression both on and off the pitch, the potential move could align well with Gee’s own career ambitions at this stage.
In many ways, this transfer story encapsulates the changing landscape of Championship rugby league. Players with Super League backgrounds continue to shape clubs’ fortunes, while recruitment decisions often determine which teams rise and which fall. For Widnes, the pursuit of Matty Gee represents both a practical solution to their squad needs and a statement of intent as they look ahead to 2026. Whether or not the deal goes through, it is clear that the Vikings are determined to strengthen and remain competitive in a fiercely contested division.
The weeks ahead will reveal whether Matty Gee does indeed make the switch from Bradford to Widnes. With other clubs also monitoring his situation, the battle for his signature may become one of the key talking points of the off-season. For now, fans can only speculate, but the interest alone shows how highly regarded the forward remains. His potential arrival would mark another step in Widnes’ ongoing effort to build a squad capable of challenging at the highest levels once again.
