Leeds Rhinos have fought off interest from the NRL to tie down rising star Zak Lloyd.

The teenage back-rower has signed a three-year deal that will keep him at Headingley until at least the end of the 2029 season.

Lloyd, whose suitors included new NRL franchise Papua New Guinea Chiefs, was drafted in for his Super League debut last month and featured three times before Leeds' injury issues eased.

The 18-year-old has been rewarded for his early promise with a new long-term contract.

Rhinos boss Brad Arthur said: “Zak is a young player with a lot of potential and he has shown us that he has the attitude and work ethic required to continue developing.

"He is learning every day and is improving in all areas of his game. The most important thing for Zak now is to keep working hard, keep learning and take his opportunities when they come.

"Leeds as a club should be proud of the pathways we have for developing young players and an important part of that is rewarding them with opportunities in Super League. I am looking forward to seeing how he develops over the next few years."

Lloyd viewed Leeds as the perfect place to continue his development.

Zak Lloyd has committed his future to Leeds. (Photo: Matthew Merrick/SWpix.com)

placeholder image — Zak Lloyd has committed his future to Leeds. (Photo: Matthew Merrick/SWpix.com)

"This is the club I have grown up wanting to play for and to know that I will be here until at least the end of 2029 is a really proud moment for me and my family," said the former Siddal junior.

"I know I have still got a lot to learn and improve on but I am really enjoying being around the first team and learning from the coaches and the senior players.

"My goal is to keep working hard, take my opportunities and hopefully repay the faith the club has shown in me. I am really excited about what the next few years can bring."