David Armstrong update as Leigh Leopards transfer situation receives clarity
Newcastle Knights' David Armstrong celebrating a try
David Armstrong will be a Leigh Leopards player in 2024, it has been confirmed.
Armstrong has been the subject of a mini transfer saga in recent weeks. He looked set to turn down an approach from the Leopards to agree a new deal with Newcastle to remain in the NRL in 2025 and beyond.
However, at the last minute, he then decided to accept Newcastle’s offer of a new deal – before giving notice to the Knights he was going to do the exact opposite and join Leigh on a multi-year deal.
That led to reports the Knights would try and potentially block Armstrong’s move to Super League but they have now confirmed in a statement that will not be the case.
They said: “The nib Newcastle Knights have decided they will not stand in the way of David Armstrong accepting an offer to join the Leigh Leopards at the end of the 2024 season.
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“Armstrong will play for the Knights for the remainder of the year, and we look forward to David continuing his strong form for the club.”
It represents a major piece of good news for the Leopards, who have now seemingly secured the services of their top transfer target for 2025 and beyond.
Armstrong has been identified for a number of months as a key recruitment target, with him identified to come in and be the Leopards’ starting fullback.
That would create a potential spine of Armstrong at fullback, Matt Moylan and Lachlan Lam in the halves as well as Edwin Ipape at hooker.
Leigh head of rugby Chris Chester said: “One of our main objectives right now was to add speed to our backline and David is someone we knew has that. He brings NRL experience and will add a lot of quality to the team.
“Davey is someone I’ve been watching for 12 months, and I’m really pleased to have his signature for the next three years. It’s a signing I’m really excited by and he’s someone who I know will be getting Leythers out of their seats.”
Leigh’s attention will now turn towards other targets – which includes Leeds forward Rhyse Martin.
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