Leeds Rhinos wait for Sam Lisone exit confirmation as Hull FC deal reportedly done
Leeds Rhinos are waiting for confirmation of super-sub Sam Lisone’s future plans.
The former Samoa international is out of contract at the end of this season and a report via HullLive says he has signed for Hull FC on a deal beginning next year, but that has not been confirmed to Rhinos. Under a change to RFL rules, Lisone has been free to talk to rival clubs since last December and is under no obligation to keep his present club informed.
Leeds have also been in contract negotiations with the front-rower who joined them from Gold Coast Titans ahead of the 2023 season and has scored 13 tries in 68 appearances - all but nine of those coming off the bench. Lisone has crossed seven times in 19 games this year - an impressive strike rate for a replacement front-rower - and grabbed Rhinos’ opening try as they hit back from 8-0 down to win 14-8 at Betfred Super League leaders Hull KR last Sunday.
An increase in the overseas quota from seven to 10 next season has cleared the way for Hull to sign Lisone. Though he has been considering a return to Australia for personal reasons, he was understood to be keen to play in next year’s Las Vegas fixture between Rhinos and Hull KR and said he wouldn’t want to play for a rival Betfred Super League team.
Rhinos are now focusing on retaining members of their current squad beyond the 2026 season, but if Lisone does go, Leeds are likely to look at bringing in a replacement and his exit would give them some room under the salary cap, as well as another quota spot. Rhinos have high hopes for several of their young forwards, including front-rowers Tom Nicholson-Watton and Ben Littlewood who have come through their system, but - particularly with Morgan Gannon having signed for Auckland Warriors from next term - bringing in another experienced prop woud become a priority.