Released Hull FC forward signs deal with another Super League club

It was confirmed by Hull FC and their head coach Tony Smith that French forward Damel Diakhate had been released earlier this week, however, it has not taken long for the 22-year-old to be snapped up by another Super League club.

Diakhate had trialled with Hull FC in 2023 before penning a one-year deal with an option to extend in October last year but that deal was cut short with the club releasing a statement confirming the Frenchman’s release.

Hull FC confirmed the news via a statement on their website that read: “Hull FC can confirm that Damel Diakhate has been released from the remainder of his contract.

“The 22-year old prop departs the club with immediate effect to take up a playing opportunity closer to home and his family in France.

“The club would like to thank Damel for his efforts, and wish him the very best for his future within Rugby League and beyond.”

Tony Smith had even suggested that the club had looked for options to loan the Frenchman out but no clubs in England showed interest in Diakhate, however, he has since been signed by a fellow Super League side.

“We would have liked to have got him out on loan somewhere and maybe got him more regular rugby league but that opportunity wasn’t there in this country after we pursued it,” Smith explained.

Former Hull FC signing Damel Diakhate returns to France

The club that has offered Diakhate a deal are Catalans Dragons meaning that the 22-year-old will be able to ply his trade in Super League but also in his native France, echoing the Hull FC statement that suggested Diakhate was looking for an opportunity closer to home.

Catalans announced the signing less than a day after Diakhate’s release, stating: “Catalans Dragons are pleased to announce the signing of Damel Diakhate for the end of the 2024 season. The French prop who played for Hull FC, 22, has signed a one-year deal with the club.”

Damel Diakhate said: “I am very happy to join the Catalan Dragons, as a French player, it has always been a goal of mine to join this club. Now I have to work hard and earn my spot at the top level. I would like to thank the president, the coach and his staff and my agent for this opportunity, I will do everything I can to make the most out of it.”

Steve McNamara added: “We are very happy to give Damel an opportunity on a deal until the end of the season. It’s difficult to get to the level of super league standard but I feel he will be given the best opportunity here.  Being in around french players and coaches that can communicate clearly and help him will assist greatly. I know he has a desire to work hard and we look forward to working with him.”