Leeds Rhinos confirm Leon Ruan signing: Ex-Wakefield Trinity forward moves from Doncaster

Leeds-born Ruan, 19, has penned a three-year contract and will be part of Rhinos’ full-time squad next season.

He has been training with Rhinos as a trialist alongside playing for the Dons, where he scored six tries in 20 appearances this year following an off-season move from Wakefield Trinity’s academy.

Ruan played in Doncaster’s promotion final defeat by Swinton Lions last weekend and was a nominee for the League One young player of the year award.

A lifelong Leeds fan, Ruan said: “It has been an unreal experience so far, training with the Rhinos and getting to know them.

“It has been a bonus to be in that environment and I can’t wait to get started properly.

“I was part of the group at the Grand Final the other week and to get a taste of an occasion like that was brilliant.

“To get to a Grand Final and be part of it is what we all play rugby for. That experience has certainly encouraged my appetite and I want to help the team get there again in the years to come.”

Ruan added: “Doncaster have been a massive part of my career to get where I am and have the chance to sign at Leeds.

“The coaches, staff and players have helped me and pushed me to find out about myself physically and mentally and without them I wouldn’t be where I am now.

“My plan was always to try and get a shot at Super League. I wanted to get game time and the experience against men, which Doncaster offered me.

“I have always backed my potential and it has been a journey to get to where I want to be.

“I am looking forward to a big off season, so I can hit the ground running, grow physically and settle into the squad.”

Rhinos coach Rohan Smith hailed Ruan as “a powerful edge back-rower with a great attitude to learn and improve”.

He said: “He has had a strong season in League One that we have tracked closely for months.

“Leon has transitioned well into our squad in recent weeks, alongside his Doncaster training.”

Doncaster’s chief executive Carl Hall, a former Leeds player, said: “Rohan Smith has done an exceptional job throughout this process and I am sure Leon’s journey has only just started.

“He leaves Doncaster with our best wishes. The relationship between the Rhinos and Doncaster is important to us and we are really proud to play our part in helping Leon realise his dream.We look forward to seeing him progress in the coming years.”