EXCLUSIVE: Warren Gatland could make shock England coaching move

Thursday, 28 August 2025 at 07:47

byRugby Rucker

Former Wales boss Warren Gatland has emerged as a leading candidate to take on the role of Director of Rugby at Newcastle Red Bulls, RUCK understands.

The ambitious Premiership outfit are on the hunt for a “world-class” operator to spearhead their new Red Bull era, with the role set to be filled ahead of the 2026/27 season.

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Earlier this summer, it was widely reported in Japan that Gatland was poised to join Urayasu D-Rocks, replacing ex-Scotland scrum-half Greig Laidlaw as head coach in Rugby League One. However, in a surprise twist, former England prop Graham Rowntree has instead been unveiled as their new boss.

That decision has now left Gatland free — and firmly back in the frame for Newcastle.

RUCK sources suggest that both Gregor Townsend and Gatland are high on Red Bull’s shortlist as they look to establish a truly elite structure in the North East. Townsend, whose Scotland contract expires after the 2026 Six Nations, has also been heavily linked in recent weeks.

Gatland’s Premiership pedigree is unquestionable. After a tough stint with Ireland, he joined London Wasps under Nigel Melville and transformed their fortunes. He later took over as Director of Rugby, masterminding three consecutive Premiership titles (2003, 2004, 2005), a European Challenge Cup triumph (2003), and Heineken Cup glory in 2004 with a famous 27-20 victory over Toulouse.

Red Bull, who acquired Newcastle from Semore Kurdi, are said to be prioritising experience and silverware pedigree — both boxes Gatland ticks emphatically.

What this means for current DoR Steve Diamond remains to be seen. The former Sale boss admitted earlier this month that he was only focused on ensuring Newcastle remain competitive this season, having already overseen a number of smart signings.

Those could soon be joined by more eye-catching arrivals, with Christian Wade tipped for a cross-code return once his stint with Wigan Warriors ends, while 22-year-old Wallabies flyer Darby Lancaster is also understood to be on the radar.

Lancaster, who made his Test debut last year, caught the eye again this summer with a barnstorming try for the Waratahs against the British & Irish Lions.

Newcastle Red Bulls Make EIGHT New Signings as New Era Begins

Following the takeover, Newcastle Red Bulls have made eight key signings to bolster their squad for the upcoming season.

These acquisitions reflect the club's ambition to compete at the highest level and bring success back to Kingston Park.

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NEWCASTLE RED BULLS SIGNING:

Amanaki Mafi (Back Row – Japan)

Amanaki Mafi, a dynamic back-row forward from Japan, joins Newcastle Red Bulls from Yokohama Canon Eagles. Known for his powerful ball-carrying and defensive capabilities, Mafi is expected to add physicality and experience to the team's forward pack.

Simón Benítez Cruz (Back Row – Argentina)

Argentinian back-row forward Simón Benítez Cruz arrives from Tarucas. With his strong work ethic and breakdown skills, Benítez Cruz aims to enhance the team's competitiveness in the contact area and contribute to their defensive strategies.

Tom Christie (Flanker – New Zealand)

New Zealand flanker Tom Christie joins from the Crusaders. Renowned for his relentless tackling and high work rate, Christie brings a wealth of experience from one of the most successful teams in Super Rugby. His arrival is seen as a significant statement of intent for the club's ambitions.

Fergus Lee-Warner (Lock – Australia)

Australian lock Fergus Lee-Warner returns to the English Premiership after a stint with the NSW Waratahs. Standing at 6'6", Lee-Warner offers a formidable presence in the lineout and scrum, providing depth to the Red Bulls' second-row options.

Boeta Chamberlain (Fly-Half – South Africa)

South African fly-half Boeta Chamberlain joins from the Blue Bulls on a one-year deal. Chamberlain, a former Springbok U20s representative, is expected to bring creativity and tactical kicking to the team's playmaking.

Freddie Clarke (Back Row – England)

England international Freddie Clarke joins from Gloucester. A versatile back-row forward, Clarke's experience and physicality will bolster the Red Bulls' forward pack, providing options in both the back and second rows.

Jamie Hodgson (Lock – Scotland)

Scottish international lock Jamie Hodgson arrives from Edinburgh. Standing at 6'6", Hodgson adds height and strength to the Red Bulls' lineout and scrum, enhancing their set-piece capabilities.

George McGuigan (Hooker – England)

England international hooker George McGuigan returns to Newcastle Red Bulls after a stint with Gloucester. Known for his dynamic ball-carrying and try-scoring ability, McGuigan's return adds depth and experience to the team's front row.

With these strategic signings, Newcastle Red Bulls are positioning themselves as serious contenders in the Gallagher Premiership. The infusion of international talent and experience aims to restore the club to its former glory and inspire a new generation of rugby fans in the region.