Huddersfield Giants have completed the signing of Ricky Leutele.
The centre joins the club after becoming a free agent and he becomes the latest signing made by new coach Ian Watson since his arrival at the club.
Leutele, 30, who won an NRL title with Cronulla, joined Toronto in 2019 and was a standout performer for the Wolfpack in both the Championship and Super League before their demise.
He now links up with the Giants after ending the season with NRL champions Melbourne Storm.
His signing is the latest move in what is expected to be an off-season of activity at the John Smith’s Stadium.
“Ricky is an outstanding signing for us at the Giants, which Richard and I have been working hard on for a few weeks now, so we’re delighted and looking forward to welcoming Ricky and his family to the Giants in 2021,” said Watson.
“He comes to us as a person with outstanding character and a winner at the highest level, with numerous finals appearances and a Grand Final winner with Cronulla in 2016.
“Ricky showed glimpses of his ability with his performances at Toronto last season and in his move to Melbourne Storm, where he looked in phenomenal condition. He’ll certainly increase the quality and competitive depth in our outstanding backline and will be a player to watch in Super League in 2021.”
Leutele added: “I’m very excited to be joining the club and I can’t wait to get over. It feels awesome to have signed for the Giants. I spoke to Ian (Watson) the other night about the direction in which he wants to take the team and the club. What Ian described to me is something I want to be a part of, and I can’t wait to rip in with the boys.
“Hopefully, I can bring my ‘A’ game and just be the best version of me when I’m playing for the Giants.”
Leutele will join James Cunningham and Jack Cogger as new signings at the Giants next season, while their pursuit of Luke Yates remains ongoing.
