LIST | The five players Newcastle Falcons must sign to survive next season

Wednesday, 15 April 2020 at 14:54

bySteven Smith

Today, we are taking a look at three players Newcastle Falcons must sign in free agency if they truly want to contend in the Gallagher Premiership next season. So without further ado, here are their top free-agent targets:

We know finances could be tight in the North East next season, so we've tried to look at affordable targets who'd add a lot to their current squad.

1. Freddie Burns

The fly-half has something to prove after becoming a bit-part player at Bath in the last year. He has been linked with a move to Top 14 leaders Lyon and also reportedly has offers from Super Rugby clubs. However, if he chooses not to leave the Premiership, the 29-year-old would be a welcome addition for the Falcons, who now use Toby Flood more often in a midfield role.

2. Richard Wigglesworth

The Saracens scrum-half would be an excellent addition to the coaching team at Kingston Park and would go some way to filling the void left by Sonatane Takulua, who left for Toulon in February. With his move to Sale Sharks now off, according to The Rugby Paper, the Falcons should go all out to sign the England international in a dual role.

3. Josh Matavesi

Bring him back to Kingston Park! The flying Fijian made quite the impression at Bath after his mid-season switch from Newcastle to replace Jamie Roberts. However, Bath boss Stuart Hooper revealed he only has a contract at The Rec until the end of the season. The centre would be a huge addition if Dean Richards could convince him to return to Tyneside.

4. Guy Thompson

The forward was told he would be let go from Leicester Tigers last month, according to the Mail Online. Despite talking with a number of clubs, the 33-year-old now faces an uncertain future due to the lockdown. The popular back-rower still has a lot to offer and would add a lot to the Falcons pack upon their Premiership return.

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5. Phil Dolman

Rob Baxter's first signing when he took charge of the Exeter Chiefs back in 2009, the Welshman has played an integral role in the rise of the Devon club since his arrival. The 34-year-old fullback penned a one-year extension towards the end of the 2018/19 season, but it's looking increasingly likely that he may have played his last game for Chiefs. If he wants one last challenge, keeping Newcastle Falcons in the Premiership would be a good one.