LAWYERS remain locked in talks to thrash out a deal to secure Paul Cooke's controversial cross-city move from Hull FC to neighbours Hull KR.

Cooke's transfer remains in the hands of the respective clubs' legal representatives as they battle to come to a suitable agreement.

The 26-year-old quit Hull on Monday and has agreed a three-and-a-half year deal with Rovers, believing he is a free agent. The Robins were this morning still hopeful of Cooke making his debut against the Giants at Craven Park tonight.

But Hull insist he is their contracted player until 2008, with the Rugby Football League (RFL) refusing to ratify the transfer of Cooke's registration. Hull's chief executive James Rule confirmed negotiations were taking place in a bid to resolve the impasse.

"The only update I can give at the moment is that our respective lawyers are talking," he said.

"They have been in communication for the last few days, ever since Paul Cooke handed in his letter of resignation to the club.

"It is far too early to say what stage we are at and right now all our efforts as a club are being put into Saturday's game against Wakefield at Belle Vue."

Rovers did not want to comment on the matter, but a swift resolution to the situation is in their interests.

If the Robins want Cooke to make his debut against the Giants at Craven Park tonight, negotiations must continue at a fast pace.

RFL officials confirmed earlier in the week that Cooke must have his registration as a Rovers player accepted by 2pm today in order to face the Giants.

That left less than 24 hours for a possible compensation package to be sorted out. Any hopes of Hull making a quick signing to replace Cooke now appear very slim.

Hull had shown an interest in experienced Canterbury Bulldogs' star Brent Sherwin, but any hopes of a short-term swoop are over.

Having been ousted by Kiwi star Ben Roberts, Sherwin has now regained his place in the Bulldogs' first team. He returned for their 21-18 win over Parramatta last weekend and coach Steve Folkes has named him in his side for this weekend's game against Wests.

Meanwhile, Leeds Rhinos have the chance to move back to the top of Super League tonight with victory at home to Catalans Dragons. But Salford will remain firmly rooted to the foot of the the table if they are beaten at home by Wigan.

Lesley Vainikolo could sensationally move from Bradford to Gloucester RU as early as next month, but only if the Bulls land fellow Kiwi ace Tame Tupou as his replacement.

Brisbane Broncos winger Tupou, 24, is desperate to join Bradford and is released from contract.