TIM Street will stay a Leigh player for at least another two seasons.

The Hilton Park skipper, who spent the first summer season at Leigh on extended loan from Hull, is expected to make his move permanent later this week.

A fee has been agreed between the clubs for the £50,000-rate prop and currently Leigh and the player are putting the finishing touches to a two-year financial package.

But while Street's future at Leigh now appears secure, New Zealander Alan Mason is not being retained.

The stand-off, who arrived with a big reputation, will be released with Leigh attempting to get the player fixed up with another English club.

"The financial implications of keeping Tim at Leigh show that we mean business. It's going to be difficult finding the money but we all see Tim as the corner stone of our team and club," says Hilton Park chairman Mick Higgins.

But the Leigh boss says the decision to release Mason is in the best interests of both parties.

"The lad himself is the first to admit that his form last season was poor. He feels he let us and himself down and probably a change of scenery will do him good.

"We'll try to get him fixed up with another club over here but if that's not possible, he'll be going home."

Along with coach Eric Hughes, Leigh are currently drawing up their retained list of players for next season. No firm decisions have yet been made but Higgins confirms: "Some will be released."

Hughes has identified areas that need strengthening and Leigh are currently talking to several clubs and players.

"The club's financial position makes things very difficult but we are trying to attract new faces. I'm confident that we'll soon be in a position to be able to do some business."

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