Leeds Rhinos will lose a second star player to the NRL at the end of this season.
Forward James McDonnell, a member of last year’s Betfred Super League Dream Team, is set to join current teammate Harry Newman in the southern hemisphere competition from 2027.
Newman has already signed a two-year deal with new Australian club Perth Bears, beginning when his Leeds contract expires this autumn.
Rhinos today (Saturday) confirmed McDonnell will “pursue an option to play in the NRL from next season”.
They have not commented on McDonnell’s destination, but Serious About Rugby League understands he could link up with Newman at Perth, who are building a squad to enter the NRL next year under coach Mal Meninga.
Newman and McDonnell will take the number of ex-Leeds players in the NRL to three, following in the footsteps of another second-rower, Morgan Gannon, who is this season beginning a three-year contract with New Zealand Warriors.
McDonnell joined Leeds from Wigan Warriors ahead of the 2023 season and has become a mainstay of the team, scoring 15 tries in 80 appearances.
He was ever-present last term and signed a new one-year contract midway through the season.
As well as Dream Team selection, the 25-year-old’s form earned him a place in England’s Ashes training group, though he wasn’t called into the Test squad.
Leeds Rhinos man set for NRL switch
Rhinos sporting director Ian Blease said: “When we agreed a contract extension with James back in April last year, we knew his ambitions as a player, just like when he left his hometown club at Wigan to gain regular rugby [on loan] at Leigh and then came across to Leeds to make a name for himself at the Rhinos.
“He has tremendous self belief and drive which, as a club, we have benefitted from in recent years. I know he will give his all this season before moving on.
“We have both agreed to make a decision as early as possible in the year so we can plan for 2027 and I am grateful James has been up front at the earliest opportunity. He had an outstanding season in 2025 and I am expecting even better in 2026.”
Rhinos coach Brad Arthur admitted: “It is disappointing to lose James for 2027, but there is a long time to go between now and then.
“James is a great example, particularly for our younger players, of where hard work and dedication can take you.
“For those in the squad, they know there is a spot up for grabs next year and that should drive them on.
“Likewise, on Ian’s recent visit to Australia there was a lot of interest from players about what we are building here at the Rhinos so I have every confidence we can continue to build a strong squad for the future.”
Check out the latest episode of The Serious About Rugby League Show on our YouTube channel here.
