The man behind two of Leigh Leopards’ biggest signings including their latest recruit

Leigh Leopards have secured the signing of former Leeds Rhinos star Ava Seumanufagai and he becomes the latest of a number of signings brought in at the club.

Some were tied up a long time ago but not revealed meanwhile some were later additions to the squad assembled by Adrian Lam, Chris Chester and Derek Beaumont.

Director of Rugby has revealed the man behind this latest acquisition, the same man behind another major signing Leigh have made, another ex-Leeds man.

That man was Zak Hardaker. Hardaker was expected by many to stay at Leeds in 2023 after a solid second half of the season since re-joining the Rhinos from Wigan.

It seemed even Leeds believed as such with the player not given the farewell others received in the squad as they worked to open the cap space to retain him.

However, when they did put an offer down for him, Hardaker was reportedly “gutted” by it believing that it didn’t reflect what he was worth.

This offer couldn’t compare with the offer tabled by Leigh with the Leopards working hard behind the scenes to get what Chris Chester has described as a “world class” player to the club in just a week.

Speaking after the signing of Hardaker, Chester said: “We are delighted to get a world-class player over the line like Zak.

“His form with Leeds last year was exceptional and is an international quality player who has worked with Adrian at Wigan in previous years.

“He will bring in a lot of quality and experience, into what is already a very strong Leigh side and we’re delighted he is joining the club despite having interest from other Super League clubs.

“A big thanks goes out to Sam and Liam Ayoub in getting this deal done in the last week.”

Likewise, having signed Seumanufagai, Chester again thanks Ayoub: “I’d like to thank Liam Ayoub for his assistance in getting this deal over the line.”

Ayoub works for Ultra Management Sports and Liam played for Penrith in 2009.