Leeds Rhinos forward linked with switch to Super League rivals

Leeds Rhinos are at risk of losing star prop Sam Lisone to a Super League rival at the end of the season.

As  Hull Live and Love Rugby League reported earlier this afternoon, Hull FC are understood to have registered their interest in signing the forward as they look to strengthen their middle unit under John Cartwright.

Lisone has been one of Leeds’ strongest performers this season, with the prop coming in for plenty of plaudits of late. As such, with his contract at Headingley due to expire at the end of the season, Leeds are understood to be keen on retaining his services for next year and beyond.

A deal has not been agreed, though, and Hull could have thrown a spanner in the works as they prep for what appears to be an inevitable quota spot rule change. At present clubs can have seven overseas players within their ranks but that figure is expected to rise to as many as 10 when clubs meet up in July to discuss the changes.

Recruitment and retention decisions are hard to make until clubs get clarity on that situation, but Hull are moving quickly to put things in place. The Black and Whites have reportedly tied down Liam Knight, with Hull Live claiming they have pre-empted the rule changes coming into place.

And, Lisone would tie into that, too, with Hull needing another spot to open up in order to sign up the Samoan.

Leeds Rhinos keen to secure Sam Lisone stay

The deal would represent a big blow for Leeds, who find themselves in limbo somewhat until their head coach position is finalised. Brad Arthur still hasn’t confirmed his plans beyond the end of the season and that delay is less than ideal.

The news will come as a something of a surprise to Leeds fans, too, especially following Lisone’s comments earlier this month, with the prop seeming to hint at a Leeds stay by saying: “I love it here, there’s no other team I’d want to play for, to be honest.”

Lisone has been with Rhinos since the start of the 2023 season. In that time he has made 66 appearances for the club and scored 12 tries, with half of those coming this year. He spent time with New Zealand Warriors and Gold Coast Titans during his time in the NRL.