Leeds Rhinos have released another first team player from the final year of his Leeds Rhinos contract.

Rhinos today (Wednesday) confirmed French international prop Justin Sangare has “been released from the remaining year of his contract to allow him to negotiate with other clubs on a new deal”. He has been linked with a move to Salford Red Devils.

Sangare made 42 appearances after joining Rhinos from Toulouse Olympique ahead of the 2023 season. He missed only four games last season and started in eight of the 10 fixtures under coach Brad Arthur.

French prop Justn Sangare has left Leeds Rhinos. Picture by Bruce Rollinson.

The 26-year-old joined Leeds on an initial two-year deal, which was extended by a season in July, 2023. Rhinos’ sporting director Ian Blease said: “I would like to wish Justin and his family all the best for the future. He is well liked in our squad and I would like to thank him for all his efforts while at the Rhinos.”

Sangare is the eighth member of Rhinos’ first team squad to leave in off-season, after David Fusitu'a, Rhyse Martin, Mickael Goudemand, Kieran Hudson, Luis Roberts, James Donaldson and Corey Johnson. Goudemand and Hudson were also under contract for next year.

Meanwhile, Parramatta Eels have announced the departure of Fijian winger Maika Sivo, who has been strongly linked with a move to Rhinos. A club statement confirmed he “has been granted a release from his contract for the 2025 season to pursue opportunities that will allow him to further his career elsewhere”. Sivo scored 104 tries in 115 NRL games for Parramatta, where he was coached by Leeds boss Arthur.