Harry Newman is encouraged and excited by the work Leeds Rhinos are doing in the recruitment market over the off-season. The Rhinos have secured five signings ahead of the 2025 season as Brad Arthur continues to make his mark at Headingley and shape his squad.
Former Parramatta Eels man Maika Sivo became the latest to join the Rhinos, with the Fiji international’s three-year deal being announced on Saturday morning. He joins Ryan Hall, Jake Connor, Keenan Palasia and Cooper Jenkins in making the move to Headingley.
A raft of players have been released in order to make room for Arthur’s recruits, but after what can only be described as a frustrating Super League season, the changes are felt to be necessary as the Rhinos look to kick on after missing out on the play-offs for two seasons running.
Newman is currently focused on international matters with the centre being part of Shaun Wane’s squad to take on Samoa, with the first Test taking place this afternoon. However, he has been keeping tabs on what’s going on at his club and he likes what he sees.
“We have made some good signings so far so it is an exciting prospect,” Newman told Serious About RL’s sister site, the Yorkshire Evening Post. “Brad and Ian [Blease, Rhinos’ sporting director] are working hard in the background, trying to build us a better squad.
“As someone who has been at the club a long time, you see these names linked and it’s exciting. We just need to work hard in pre-season and deliver a lot better than we did this year.”
On what he expects of himself next season in a Leeds Rhinos shirt, Newman said: “I will probably get fitter in 2025 under Brad.
“I have learned a lot from him in the 12 weeks he was at Leeds and I am excited to be coached by him for another year. I am just looking to hit my form, week-in, week-out next year.”
He added: “In terms of being fitter, I mean being able to do what I do best for longer periods of time in games. I think that will come in pre-season.”