Leeds Rhinos Sign Samoan International Hooker Levi

Leeds Rhinos have confirmed the signing of Samoan international hooker Danny Levi, who joins the club on a two-year contract from NRL side Canberra Raiders. The 29-year-old brings a wealth of top-level experience to AMT Headingley, having represented Samoa and New Zealand on the international stage and established himself with clubs in the NRL and Super League.

Levi becomes the Rhinos’ latest addition as the club continues to build for next season with new recruits Ethan O'Neill and Jeremiah Matautia already at the club. His arrival adds further depth to Brad Arthur’s side.

A former Newcastle Knights, Manly Sea Eagles, and Brisbane Broncos player, Levi joined the Canberra Raiders ahead of the 2023 season. Internationally, he gained four caps for New Zealand at the 2017 World Cup with five caps for Samoa, including four in the 2022 World Cup in England. He played for Huddersfield in 2022, making 30 appearances and scoring four tries, playing in the Betfred Challenge Cup Final at Wembley. 

Speaking about his move to Leeds Rhinos, Levi expressed his excitement at taking on a new challenge in one of rugby league’s most passionate environments.

“I’m thrilled to be joining Leeds Rhinos,” Levi said. “The club has an incredible history, a loyal fanbase, and a vision for the future that I’m excited to be part of. I’m looking forward to contributing however I can, working hard with the boys, and embracing everything that comes with playing in Super League. This is a fresh chapter for me and I can’t wait to get started.”

Leeds Rhinos Head Coach Brad Arthur welcomed Levi’s signing, highlighting his experience and competitive edge as key attributes that will strengthen the squad. He added, “Danny is a player with proven quality at the highest level. His speed around the ruck, defensive toughness, and leadership will be a massive asset for us. We’ve been deliberate in building a squad with energy, ambition, and depth, and Danny fits that profile perfectly. We’re excited to see the impact he will make both on and off the field.”

Sporting Director Ian Blease added, “In Danny has performed against top competition throughout his career. His experience with Samoa adds valuable perspective, and his professionalism aligns with the culture we’re fostering at Leeds. Jarrod O’Connor was a consistent performer for us at hooker last year and we have been looking to add a specialist hooker to our squad after Andy Ackers left us and Danny is an ideal addition to our group.”

Levi will join the squad for pre-season training on Monday after arriving from Australia over the weekend.