A week ago, Melbourne Storm released forward Aaron Pene to afford him playing time elsewhere with Leigh Leopards as the reported destination. Now. Pene has wished his former club ‘goodbye’ in what looks like confirmation he’ll be flying to England imminently.
Melbourne had confirmed that Pene had been released, ending his second stay with the club. Their statement read: “Melbourne Storm this morning granted prop, Aaron Pene, an immediate release to join an English Super League club.”
Club Director of Football, Frank Ponissi, said: “We know Aaron will add great value to his new club and wish him all the best for the future.”
That club was reported to be Leigh Leopards, per The League Scene Pod, who also claimed that Pene’s arrival would be facilitated by the release of Fijian forward Ben Nakubuwai. Since then, Nakubuwai has left the club but on a season-long loan, something that does open up a quota spot.
QUIZ: Can you name these 10 former Leigh players?
“Until next time” – Leigh Leopards land their man
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In the week since Melbourne’s announcement that Pene would be exiting for a Super League opportunity, all eyes have been on Leigh Leopards for them to make the move and sign their man.
That move came last night with the release of Ben Nakubuwai and it would seem that Pene’s arrival will be quick to follow. It’s unclear whether it will be confirmed before tomorrow’s clash against Hull KR.
Pene has now posted on his social media his ‘goodbye’ message to the Storm and their fans, hinting that he’s set to jet off to England and link up with his new side.
The 28-year-old posted on his Instagram: “Not goodbye, just until next time”, alluding to his two spells with the club so far.
When Melbourne confirmed his exit, Pene said: “I’ve loved every minute of my time at this club. Every person at some point through my time here has had a positive impact on my football career and in my life outside.
“It’s never easy leaving a place you love and call home.”
He’s now expected to link up with Leigh Leopards and replace Nakubuwai who has joined Featherstone Rovers on a season-long deal.
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Leigh set to miss out on other NRL target
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Pene was long-linked with a move to Super League and that is finally coming to fruition but a man who was linked heavily to Leigh Leopards specifically was Newcastle Knights full-back David Armstrong.
Leigh were initially unable to make a move as they were at full quota but also in desperate need of a full-back after Gareth O’Brien’s injury. Unfortunately for the Leopards, it came at the same time as Newcastle’s captain and Daly M winner Kalyn Ponga went down injured.
As such, Armstrong was thrust into the first team where he has since scored five in four and that’s prompted a contract offer from the Knights, making Armstrong’s arrival for 2025 even less likely too.
Speaking back in April, Adrian Lam said on Armstrong: “David Armstrong has been of interest to me and Chessie and the group, without a doubt.
“He’s someone that we would see fit in this environment really, really well and the style of play that we play will suit him. We’re always open to looking at anyone coming off contract that’s going to make us better, whether it’s during the season or off-season.
“He is a player that we are interested in. It’s not working out at the moment but that’s what happens.”
