Leigh Leopards announce signings of Zak Hardaker and Ricky Leutele ahead of 2023 Super League season

The newly rebranded Leigh Leopards have confirmed the major signings of Zak Hardaker and Ricky Leutele.

In a huge day for the club, which saw them change their name from Leigh Centurions to Leigh Leopards, Hardaker and Leutele become the first players to sign for the club since the rebrand.

It’s a huge piece of business from Leigh, who will be looking to stay up in Super League next season having fallen short two seasons ago.

In announcing the signings, it appears the club have also given fans a sneak peak into what the club’s new kit may look like, with both Hardaker and Leutele photshopped into their new team’s jersey.

🤩 Want to see two new signings for this upcoming 2023 @SuperLeague season?

Welcome to the club @rickyleutele and @zakhardaker1!#Leythers 🔴

— Leigh Leopards (@LeighLeopardsRL) October 20, 2022

There has been much speculation around both players since the end of the season, with Hardaker helping Leeds Rhinos reach the Super League Grand Final.

After leaving Wigan midway through the year, Hardaker started a revival at Headingley as the club went from a relegation dogfight all the way to Old Trafford.

However, despite the Rhinos attempts to keep hold of Hardaker, the former Man of Steel will ply his trade at the Leigh Sports Village next season after securing a move back over the Pennines.

Leutele was also wanted by his former club, with Huddersfield boss Ian Watson stating they did everything to keep him at the club.

However, the former Cronulla Sharks and Toronto Wolfpack centre will also link up with Leigh after turning down the opportunity to stay at the John Smith’s Stadium following the conclusion of his contract.

The duo are expected to be the first of a whole host of names through the door at Leigh, with owner Derek Beaumont keen on buidling a squad capable of staying in Super League after the club were relegated in 2021.