Luciano Leilua Chooses Dragons Over Raiders in $2.3 Million Deal
The Canberra Raiders have missed out on signing Luciano Leilua, who has opted to join the St George Illawarra Dragons on a lucrative three-year deal worth $2.3 million. Leilua’s decision to return to the Dragons, where he made his NRL debut in 2016, is partly driven by family reasons, as he wants to be closer to his father
Leilua’s signing is seen as a significant win for the Dragons, who managed to secure him despite initial reluctance due to his asking price. The Dragons’ coach, Shane Flanagan, has been active in the off-season, also bringing in players like Raymond Faitala-Mariner and Christian Tuipulotu . The Raiders had been interested in Leilua for over a year, but withdrew from negotiations when it became clear he was likely returning to the Dragons
This move is also strategic for the Cowboys, as it allows them to focus on retaining young talent like Kulikefu Finefeuiaki, who they hope to keep as they reconfigure their roster
