HUDDERSFIELD GIANTS have identified Mathieu Cozza as a possible replacement for Leroy Cudjoe at loose-forward.

The French international has signed a one-year deal with Huddersfield following his release by West Yorkshire neighbours Wakefield Trinity.

Cozza, 25, started his career with Catalans Dragons before spending the 2023 campaign with Featherstone Rovers, winning the League Leaders’ Shield.

He then played 15 times in Wakefield’s 2024 second-tier treble-winning season, and made a further 17 appearances this year as they reached the Super League play-offs.

It’s Huddersfield’s first fresh arrival to be confirmed for 2026, and the second signing in all following Niall Evalds’ permanent switch from Hull KR.

And head coach Luke Robinson has suggested it could be a significant one with Cozza, who can also prop, in line for the loose-forward role.

Recently-retired club great Cudjoe took on the position at the end of his career and Cozza will compete with Harry Rushton for that job next year.

“There was obviously a spot in the loose-forward position with Leroy retiring and we feel that Mathieu fits the bill,” said Robinson.

“He’s consistently fit and available to feature which is what we’re looking for in our signings, and we can’t wait to see him in action.

“We feel he’ll fit in seamlessly with him used to English rugby league now.”

Cozza, who will look to add to his two international caps when France play Jamaica for a World Cup place on Saturday, October 25 in Albi, said: “I’ve been in Yorkshire for three years now, I’m getting used to it and I’m happy to stay here and sign for Huddersfield.”