Super League club complete shock transfer from rivals

The likes of Leeds Rhinos, Wigan Warriors, Warrington Wolves, Hull FC and Hull KR have all completed major signings for the 2024 season and Huddersfield Giants have also been busy.

The Giants have announced the signing of powerful forward Hugo Salabio on a three-year deal, after fighting off strong competition from within Super League.

Hugo pens a three-year deal with the Giants and will start pre-season with the club from early November, after already experiencing a taste for the English game with Wakefield Trinity earlier this season.

Known for his athletic style, Salabio will add work rate and a competitive edge to the Giants middle, complementing a pack which already boasts the likes of Chris Hill, Luke Yates and Joe Greenwood.

Being only 23, Hugo has plenty of development ahead of him and we’re delighted that he has chosen Huddersfield to be his home for the next three years.

Born in Marseille, Hugo then left and joined Catalans at the age of 16, in pursuit of his Rugby League dream, making his debut for the Dragons in 2022.

He then played for Pia Donkey’s, and finished the 2023 Season at Wakefield Trinity, where he impressed, with the Giants fending off strong competition to secure his signature from other Super League clubs.

Speaking to Hugo’s representative, they commented on how excited he is to start the next part of his journey at the Giants.

“Hugo is an aggressive, hard running player who’s got a great engine on him, and won’t ever give up on the team.

“He’s still young and has a lot to learn, but was convinced by this move, hence signing a three-year deal at the club to develop his future at the Giants.

“There were several clubs interested in Hugo, but after speaking with Ian, he was convinced this was the move for him and he believes and is excited at the project at the Giants.

“Hugo wants to be the best prop in the comp, but he knows he’s got plenty of development left in him, and he’s excited to start his next journey at the Giants.”

Head Coach Ian Watson spoke on what qualities Hugo will bring to the Giants.

“Hugo is a player that caught our eye while playing in France and then at Wakefield last season, he’s going to bring considerable size and strength to our pack.

“He’s got great leg speed and the ability to play as well, he’s aggressive in defence which is something we lacked a little and we’ve looked to correct.

“We know that Hugo is going to work really hard for the team and that’s the most pleasing aspect of bringing someone in, the Team 1st Mentality.”