After weeks of speculation, in-demand Knights prop Leo Thompson has finally agreed to join the Canterbury Bulldogs on a long-term deal.
According to The Sydney Morning Herald, the 24-year-old has knocked back a more lucrative $3.5 million offer from the Raiders and will head to Belmore in 2026.
Thompson's four-year deal with the Bulldogs comes after he told Newcastle officials last month he would not be remaining with the club beyond his current deal.
Having already developed into one of the game's best young forwards in recent years, Thompson will join an ever-improving side headed by coach Cameron Ciraldo.
Leo Thompson will move to the Bulldogs in 2026. Getty
The Herald reports the Kiwis enforcer was impressed by Canterbury's trajectory, which saw them make the finals in 2024, believing he can compete for premierships.
Thompson had reportedly raised concerns about his development at the Knights.
The signing is another major boost for Bulldogs boss Phil Gould, who has completely revamped the roster in the past few years, adding a litany of representative players.
Canterbury will welcome the likes of Sitili Tupouniua and Tom Amone for the upcoming campaign before Thompson joins the following year.