STEVE Neale has confirmed Barrow Raiders are hoping to bring Alec Susino back to Barrow Raiders for the rest of the 2019 Betfred Championship season.

The Australian prop made a huge impact at Craven Park during the 2018 campaign, earning the club's Man of Steel award, The Mail's Player of the Year award and being honoured by his team-mates with the players' player of the year.

Susino had expressed a desire to return to Barrow in 2020, having returned to Australia to complete his criminal and community justice degree after putting his studies on hold for a year to come and play professionally in the UK.

However, it is understood the Italy international has since been in touch with the Raiders regarding the possibility of making a return this year.

Barrow chairman Neale has since confirmed the club have held initial discussions with Susino over possible terms for his return, with an offer being made to pay for his flight and the Raiders Supporters' Trust helping out with a donation as well.

"We have received an anonymous offer of payment for Alec Susino's flights, and have also had some commitment from the Supporters Trust that they will donate a lump sum and continue with some additional fundraising activities," Neale wrote in a post on the club's Facebook page.

"Other donations have also been received either in the shop or verbally.

"It looks like our marvellous supporters are really trying to make this happen, so much so that I have had a conversation with Alec discussing possible terms.

"If we continue to receive support then there is a good chance we can do a deal."

In total, Susino made 28 appearances for the Raiders during 2018 and scored two tries. However, his year was cut short by an injury at Dewsbury Rams in the Super Eights.