The St George Illawarra Dragons are on the verge of securing one of the NRL’s rising stars, with Newcastle Knights forward Leo Thompson set to join the Red V. The deal is expected to be finalized within the next 48 hours, marking a significant move for both the club and the player as the Dragons look to rebuild under Shane Flanagan.
Thompson, who has impressed with his physicality and work ethic, has been a standout for the Knights since making his NRL debut in 2022. At just 23 years old, the versatile forward has shown immense potential, earning praise for his strong defensive game and ability to carry the ball with power and purpose. His signing is being viewed as a crucial piece of the puzzle as the Dragons aim to return to finals contention after several challenging seasons.
Flanagan, known for his ability to rejuvenate teams, has been vocal about the need for a stronger forward pack to complement the Dragons’ talented backline. Thompson’s arrival is expected to bolster their depth and provide much-needed aggression in the middle of the field. Speaking on the potential signing, Flanagan said, “Leo is a player we’ve been watching for a while. His energy, resilience, and commitment on the field are exactly what we need as we shape the team for the future. He’s young, hungry, and has a lot of upside.”
The Dragons’ decision to target Thompson aligns with their strategy of investing in emerging talent while maintaining a balance of experience within the squad. Thompson’s ability to play in multiple positions across the forward pack adds versatility, giving Flanagan more options in building his game plans.
For Thompson, the move represents an opportunity to further develop his game under a seasoned coach and take on a more prominent role within a rebuilding team. The forward is reportedly excited about the chance to wear the famous Red V jersey and is eager to contribute to the club’s resurgence.
The signing comes amidst a busy offseason for the Dragons, who have been linked with several players as they seek to turn their fortunes around. With the arrival of Shane Flanagan, the club has already shown intent in reshaping its culture and roster, aiming to recapture the glory that once defined the Dragons.
Fans have expressed mixed emotions, with some applauding the club’s efforts to bring in young talent, while others remain cautiously optimistic about the team’s ability to compete in a highly competitive league. Nonetheless, the prospect of Thompson teaming up with the likes of Ben Hunt and other key players has injected a sense of excitement into the Dragons’ faithful.
As the final details of the contract are ironed out, all eyes will be on St George Illawarra to see if this move sparks the beginning of a new era for the club. With Leo Thompson’s signing imminent, the Dragons are making a clear statement: they are serious about building a team capable of climbing back to the top of the NRL ladder.