NRL 2024: Knights phenom David Armstrong weighing up three-year deal from Leigh Leopards | transfer market

David Armstrong only agreed to recommit to the Knights last week. Now he wants out of his contract after receiving a rich three-year deal from one of rugby league’s quirkiest.

David Armstrong lodges formal release request with Knights. Picture: Chris Hyde

Rising fullback David Armstrong is on the verge of a surprise backflip despite agreeing to a new deal with the Newcastle Knights just last week.

It is understood that Armstrong has met with Newcastle officials and told them he wants out of the two-year contract he had just agreed to in a bid to join the English Super League next season. A formal release came on Monday.

Leigh Leopards have weighed in with a richer three-year deal to entice Armstrong to join the club in 2025.

Noted speedsters including Bevan French, Matt Dufty and Jai Field have starred in the Super League in recent years.

Armstrong attracted interest from a host of NRL clubs including the Roosters before prolonged talks eventually led to him agreeing to stay in Newcastle.

But that all changed in recent days with Armstrong now wanting out. While Newcastle are frustrated they are expected to grant Armstrong that release this week.

Armstrong was set to switch to the wing next season in Newcastle as well as continue to be the understudy to superstar fullback Kalyn Ponga.

Armstrong has been a revelation for the Knights in the absence of Ponga. The 23-year-old has scored five tries from as many games including a treble against the Gold Coast in round 11.

He was poor in his most recent game against the Bulldogs and missed the clash against the Storm last week because of injury.

He has been named on an extended bench to face Penrith on Sunday.

Originally published as NRL 2024: Knights phenom David Armstrong weighing up three-year deal from Leigh Leopards | transfer market