How Hull will shape up with arrival of Lisone and other new recruits

BLACK AND WHITES CONTINUE RECRUITMENT DRIVE FOR 2026 AND BEYOND

- By DAN TOMLINSON

Hull FC are in the midst of another big recruitment drive as they look to improve their squad for 2026 and beyond.

Already signing a quartet of players for next year, Hull are now hoping to finalise a move for Leeds Rhinos prop Sam Lisone.

They are confident they can fend off competition to acquire the front-rower from his current club given official confirmation of a quota extension that will increase the overseas spots per Super League club.

The expectation is the quota will be extended from seven to ten spots, with the competition set to expand to 14 teams. That allows Hull, who were already at the current allocation of seven and have since extended Liam Knight's deal, to sign Lisone, should they entice the player away from Leeds, plus acquire one further quota player should they desire.

But what areas will John Cartwright and Richie Myler turn to next?

Hull have already signed four forwards; two middles - James Bell and Harvie Hill - and two back rowers - Joe Batchelor and Connor Bailey - for 2026, with Lisone's hoped acquisition being a fifth addition.

Forwards have been the area of focus so far, with Hull stretched in the middle and on the edge. It's hoped that sufficient reinforcements have now been acquired, allowing the likes of Zak Hardaker and Ed Chamberlain, who have played in the back row for the last three months, to compete for the centre spots again alongside Davy Litten.