Leeds confirm signing of Toulouse powerhouse Justin Sangare

Leeds have signed France international prop Justin Sangare from Toulouse on a two-year contract from 2023.

The 26-year-old came through the ranks at Toulouse and was in the team that beat the Rhinos 20-6 in the south of France on Saturday. He has made 70 first team appearances to date.

Leeds coach Rohan Smith said: “He is an impressive young man who has shown this season that he can compete at the highest level.

“He is keen to continue to learn and develop and we are looking forward to having him at the Rhinos next season.”

Justin Sangare excited to join Leeds

Sangare becomes only the third French international to sign for Leeds after Patrick Entat and Eric Anselme.

The Mali-born prop will be hoping to play in his first World Cup for France this autumn.

Sangare said: “I am very excited to join Leeds for the next two seasons. It’s a club I have liked since my childhood days. I always dreamt to join such an organisation with so much success.

“I also have a very good connection with head coach Rohan Smith and I hope to make the most of it during my time at Headingley.

“Before I join the Rhinos though I have a mission to finish with my team-mates in Toulouse, my only club for now.

“I’ll give my best for us to stay in Super League for next year. And then I hope to finish the season on a high at the World Cup.”

Sangare has won four caps for France since making his international debut in 2018. He also represented France at the Nines World Cup back in 2019.

The 6ft 3in, 18 stone powerhouse will link up with his new Leeds team-mates when the Rhinos commence pre-season training at the back end of the year.

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