Five Moana Pasifika players PREM Rugby clubs may target as potential signings

If that proves true, a wealth of Pacific talent may suddenly become available at cut price.

PREM Rugby clubs will be watching closely, and several players stand out as smart potential signings ahead of what could be a significant summer of movement.

A return to PREM Rugby feels like a logical next step for Tom Savage. Born in Havering, he already has deep ties to the English game through his long spell with Gloucester.

Across eight seasons at the club, he developed into a tough and uncompromising lock. His leadership qualities were recognised when he captained the side during the 2013 to 2014 campaign.

A move to Suntory Sungoliath in Japan followed in 2019, where he spent four seasons refining his game in a different environment.

Now 36, he is nearing the latter stages of his career. That may influence his next move, but his experience and physical edge still hold clear value.

For PREM Rugby clubs in need of short-term depth and leadership, he could prove to be a smart and reliable option.

Few players have made such an impressive rise as Miracle Fai'ilagi in recent seasons. His journey began in Samoa, where he played local rugby for Vailele.

A turning point came in 2022 when he attended a World Rugby talent combine. That exposure led directly to a contract with Moana Pasifika.

Since then, he has grown into one of the team’s most important figures. Operating at blindside flanker, he offers physicality, strong decision making and a relentless work rate.

At just 26, he is already captaining the side, highlighting his maturity and leadership qualities.

With experience across Samoa A, Sevens and the senior team, he would be an attractive long-term option for PREM Rugby clubs looking to strengthen their back row.

Even now, Julian Savea remains a player capable of making an impact at a high level. His career has been defined by power, finishing ability and big-game moments.

He earned 54 caps for New Zealand between 2012 and 2017. During that time, he played a key role in their 2015 Rugby World Cup triumph and finished as the tournament’s top try scorer.

Nicknamed The Bus, he became known for his ability to break tackles and dominate defenders. His club career has also included spells with the Hurricanes and Toulon.

At 35, he is no longer at his peak, but his experience and instincts still carry weight.

There is a sense of what might have been when it comes to Ngani Laumape’s time at Moana Pasifika. He only joined ahead of the 2026 season.

The powerful centre built his reputation in Super Rugby with the Hurricanes. Before that, he played rugby league for the New Zealand Warriors, shaping his explosive running style.

His performances in union earned him a call-up to the All Blacks in 2017. He debuted during the British and Irish Lions series and scored his first Test try in the decisive third match.

Now 32, he still possesses the physical tools that made him such a dangerous attacking threat.

Any discussion about potential departures naturally begins with Ardie Savea. He is widely regarded as one of the best back row players in the world.

His game is built on explosive carrying, relentless work rate and outstanding ability at the breakdown. Those qualities helped him win World Rugby Player of the Year in 2023.

He is currently playing in Japan during a sabbatical, but remains central to the All Blacks setup.

A move to a NZ franchise appears the most likely outcome if change comes. However, interest from Europe would be inevitable.

PREM Rugby clubs may struggle to match the financial demands, but his quality would elevate any team fortunate enough to secure him.