Leigh Leopards set to announce major signing

Leigh Leopards are set for a busy close season as they rebuild their squad ahead of the 2025 season. With a number of major departures either expected or already announced, it is fair to say that the Leopards are moving into the second phase of their return to Super League. 

John Asiata kicked off the departures, following confirmation of his move to Hull FC. Tom Amone and Kai O’Donnell will return to the NRL, joining the Canterbury Bulldogs and the North Queensland Cowboys, respectively. A number of other high-profile names are also set to leave the club in the close season, such as Zak Hardaker and Oliver Holmes.

However, this is an exciting period for Leigh fans, as it means there will be a number of signings to look forward to. Owner, Derek Beaumont, has committed to spending the full salary cap, including marquee spots, for 2025. Yesterday, news broke that the club was set to pull off a major coup by signing NRL flyer, David Armstrong.

Now, the Leopards look set to announce another major deal, by confirming an imminent signing for the rest of 2024 and beyond.

Leigh Leopards Quiz: Can you name these former Super League players?

Leigh Leopards hint at signing announcement

Leigh Leopards have been linked with a move for Aaron Pene for several weeks. Now, in a post on the club’s social media channels, it appears that the move is set to be announced.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the Leopards posted a graphic with the caption, “The Pene is mightier than the sword”.

✍️﹥🗡️ pic.twitter.com/d9ifzl22m4

— Leigh Leopards (@LeighLeopardsRL) June 12, 2024

The post appears to confirm that a deal for Pene is all but done, with an announcement expected to follow shortly.

Leigh fans can get excited about the prospect of Pene joining the club, as he will add size and power to their pack for 2024, and fill the hole left by Amone’s departure next year.

Pene has enjoyed spells with the Melbourne Storm and the New Zealand Warriors in his NRL career, having made his NRL debut during the 2019 season. He was granted an immediate release from his contract with the Storm in May to allow his to take up an offer from a then-unnamed Super League Club.