Catalans Dragons have confirmed the signing of NRL powerhouse Luciano Leilua with the 30-year-old penning a deal to move to Super League for 2027.
Leilua becomes the latest signing for overseas signing for Catalans ahead of next season with Jesse Arthars and Tyson Gamble both recruited, as well as domestic addition Amir Bourouh.
Not only does Leilua become the latest NRL player to sign in Super League, he also becomes the latest from St George Illawarra Dragons with the NRL wooden spooners having seen Damien Cook, Mat Feagai and Tyrell Sloan move to Castleford for 2027, whilst Emre Guler has been granted an immediate release so he can join Wakefield with immediate effect.
Leilua is another member of that forward pack with the 30-year-old second-row boasting 181 NRL appearances since debuting ten years ago back in 2016.
He’s also been capped six times for Samoa so far in his career and he now makes the switch to Super Leagu, signing for Les Dracs on a three-year deal.
NRL lowball Super League, Hull FC’s gargantuan signing, and new title favourites – Click here to watch this week’s episode of the Serious About Rugby League Show
Catalans Dragons sign Luciano Leilua on long-term deal
Speaking on the move, Leilua said: “I’m really excited to join his great club and its history. Looking forward to meeting my new teammates and also everyone at the club ! My family and I can’t wait to get over there and enjoy what the club have to offer.”
The Dragons, who will be coached by John Cartwright in 2027 though no official statement has confirmed his deal beyond the end of this season, will be aiming for a much-improved season in 2027 than what appears set to be another year outside the play-offs.
Cartwright believes that Leilua is a player who can aid the club in that aspect as he gave his verdict on the new recruit, stating: “He is an experienced powerful back row who has his best footy in front of him. He’s good feet for a big man and a strong offload game.”
𝑳𝒖𝒄𝒊𝒂𝒏𝒐 𝑳𝒆𝒊𝒍𝒖𝒂 𝒔𝒊𝒈𝒏𝒆 𝒂𝒖𝒙 𝑫𝒓𝒂𝒈𝒐𝒏𝒔 ✍️
Âgé de 30 ans, le deuxième ligne samoan s’est engagé avec le club pour les trois prochaines saisons.▶️ https://t.co/hyR7vNI3Q9 pic.twitter.com/UOunfxGUem
— Dragons Catalans (@DragonsOfficiel) August 19, 2026
