Leeds Rhinos have confirmed and explained that star centre Harry Newman will leave the club at the end of the 2026 Super League season.
It doesn’t come as much of a surprise following reports Down Under that the England international was set to sign for incoming NRL side Perth Bears ahead of their inaugural campaign in the competition in 2027.
Newman had just one year left on his contract meaning clubs were able to negotiate with him and it seems that Perth have won the race, though no official statement or confirmation of that move has been announced.
Instead, Leeds Rhinos have taken to social media to release a statement to confirm that the star centre will depart at the end of the 2026 Super League campaign.
Newman seemingly isn’t the only Super League star set to sign for Perth Bears with Catalans’ recruit Toby Sexton reportedly set to return to the NRL and sign with the Bears for 2027.
Leeds Rhinos confirm Harry Newman exit
A club statement began: “Leeds Rhinos have confirmed that England centre Harry Newman, 25, will leave the club at the conclusion of his current contract at the end of the 2026 Betfred Super League season.”
It’s a major blow for Leeds with Newman one of the standout centres in Super League, however, this early confirmation gives the Rhinos plenty of time to seek a replacement or nurture one of the many other young talents at the club with Max Simpson and Ned McCormack among the most obvious replacements.
Sporting Director Ian Blease seemed to confirm that Newman will be departing for the NRL, explaining: “Having spoken to Harry and his agent earlier this year, they stated to me that they were looking at Harry’s options in the NRL for 2027 and beyond. As a club, we have a proud record of developing our young talent and giving them the opportunity to play at the highest level, as Harry did this year with England.”
He added: “It is disappointing to be losing Harry for 2027 both for the Rhinos and the Super League competition but his departure allows us to look at other options for the squad going forward, including rewarding the next generation of young stars.
“I am sure Harry will want to finish his time at Leeds on the best possible note this season and has reiterated to myself and Brad that he remains totally committed to the Rhinos cause this coming season.”
NEWS | England centre Harry Newman will leave the club at the conclusion of his current contract at the end of the 2026 Betfred Super League season.
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— Leeds Rhinos (@leedsrhinos) December 1, 2025
