Rugby Transfer Round-Up: Cheslin Kolbe, Liam Williams, Bundee Aki, Tom Willis

Wednesday, 17 September 2025 at 11:34

byRugby Rucker

The latest buzz from the rugby world sees big names on the move, rising stars on the radar, and a few veterans plotting their next adventure.

From England internationals to Springbok wingers, here’s everything you need to know this week.

RUCK STORY: TOM WILLIS ON NEWCASTLE’S RADAR ?

Newcastle Red Bulls are eyeing back-row powerhouse Tom Willis, whose contract runs out next summer.

The younger brother of England star Jack Willis, Tom made his Premiership debut for Wasps against Saracens in 2017. Over five seasons, he notched 50+ appearances before Wasps’ collapse in 2022 forced him abroad.

Willis spent the 2022/23 season with Bordeaux-Bègles before returning to the Gallagher Premiership with Saracens. On the international stage, he’s represented England U18s and U20s, and made his senior Test debut against Wales in August 2023.

Newcastle could swoop and make the dynamic No.8 their marquee signing.

Full Story Here:

RUCK STORY: BUNDEE AKI’S NEXT CHAPTER ?

Ireland star Bundee Aki is contracted until 2026, but his club future is under the spotlight.

Aki starred on the 2025 British & Irish Lions tour to Australia, starting two Tests and scoring the first Lions try in the warm-up clash against Argentina.

While Bristol Bears were previously in the mix, Newcastle Red Bulls are now a possible destination, with ex-Ireland international Ronan O’Gara linked to Kingston Park. Rugby Pass reports the Red Bulls are also eyeing Ireland fly-half Joey Carbery as part of a wider rebuild.

LIAM WILLIAMS: WELSH FULL-BACK ON THE MOVE? ?

According to WalesOnline, Wales full-back Liam Williams could head to England, with Newcastle showing interest.

The 34-year-old, capped 93 times for Wales and a two-time British & Irish Lion, is unattached after leaving Saracens and has been keeping sharp with Cardiff.

CHESLIN KOLBE: HOMECOMING FOR THE STORMERS ?? (RUGBY PASS)

The Stormers are reportedly targeting Cheslin Kolbe after his stint with Tokyo Suntory Sungoliath, according to Rugby Pass.

Kolbe, 31, hasn’t played club rugby in South Africa since leaving the Stormers for Toulouse in 2017, then moving to Toulon and Suntory Sungoliath. Despite a likely pay cut, the two-time World Cup winner is eager to return home.

SALE SHARKS: VAN RHYN EXTENDS ?

Ernst van Rhyn has committed his future to Sale Sharks, signing a three-year contract extension until June 2029. The 27-year-old, a fan favourite capable in both the second- and back-row, joined from the Stormers and had one year left on his previous deal.

JOEY CARBERY: SUMMER SWITCH ON THE HORIZON? ⚡ (RUGBY PASS)

Joey Carbery could be on the move next summer, with his name circulating among clubs to drum up interest, according to Rugby Pass.

MAX OJOMOHS: SALE’S ENGLAND EYE-CATCHER? ⚡ (RUGBY PASS)

Sale Sharks are reportedly eyeing England newcomer Max Ojomoh, even though he’s contracted to Bath until 2027 (Rugby Pass).

2025 World XV: Four Lions and Four Springboks

1. Ox Nché (South Africa — Loose-head Prop)

The Springboks’ scrum weapon. Ox Nché’s combination of power, technical precision, and low-body positioning has humbled some of the best tight-heads in the world. He’s been in relentless form, topping performance charts and setting the tone for South Africa’s physical dominance.

2. Dan Sheehan (Ireland — Hooker)

Ireland’s dynamic hooker was a constant bright spark in 2025—scoring tries, leading the set-piece, and offering a constant carrying threat. His Lions tour was standout, even if it ended in controversy with a short suspension. Sheehan’s blend of skill and aggression makes him arguably the most in-form No. 2 in the world.

3. Tyrel Lomax (New Zealand — Tight-head Prop)

Now firmly established as the All Blacks’ anchor on the tight-head side, Lomax offers brute force in the scrum and strong contributions in the loose. His work rate around the field complements his set-piece reliability.

4. Eben Etzebeth (South Africa — Lock)

A veteran enforcer who still plays with the same bite he had a decade ago. Etzebeth’s line-out presence, defensive steel, and leadership remain vital to every team he represents. A genuine intimidator.

5. Maro Itoje (England — Lock)

Captain of the victorious Lions in Australia, Itoje led with both physicality and composure. His tour performances were tireless—dominating the air, disrupting opposition ball, and setting the emotional tone for the squad.

6. Tadhg Beirne (Ireland — Lock/Back-Row)

A turnover machine and line-out threat, Beirne’s versatility makes him a coach’s dream. Whether at blindside or in the second row, he consistently delivers work rate, breakdown steals, and intelligent support play.

7. Pieter-Steph du Toit (South Africa — Lock/Back-Row)

Known for his tireless tackling and unmatched work ethic, du Toit thrives in the big moments. His ability to shift between lock and flanker adds valuable flexibility to any pack.

8. Ardie Savea (New Zealand — No. 8)

A one-man highlight reel, Savea mixes explosive ball-carrying with clever link play and crucial turnovers. His leadership and athleticism make him indispensable for the All Blacks.

9. Antoine Dupont (France — Scrum-Half)

The heartbeat of French rugby, Dupont combines lightning quick service with unmatched running threat from No. 9. Even after injury setbacks, he remains the gold standard for modern scrum-halves.

10. Finn Russell (Scotland — Fly-Half)

Russell continues to redefine playmaking at fly-half—pulling the strings with vision, audacious kicks, and pinpoint passing. His composure under pressure has made him one of the most feared playmakers in the game.

11. Damien Penaud (France — Wing)

Penaud is a finisher supreme, with a try-scoring record that rivals anyone in the world game. Blessed with pace, footwork, and instincts, he can turn half-chances into match-winners.

12. Tommaso Menoncello (Italy — Inside Centre)

Italy’s rising star has the power to break the gain line and the finesse to release his outside backs. His emergence has been a major factor in Italy’s growing competitiveness on the international stage.

13. Jordie Barrett (New Zealand — Centre)

Tall, skilful, and physically imposing, Barrett offers stability in defence and creativity in attack. His kicking game and vision add an extra dimension to the midfield.

14. Cheslin Kolbe (South Africa — Wing)

Still one of the most electrifying players in rugby, Kolbe’s footwork and acceleration can dismantle any defensive line. A proven match-winner in the biggest games.

15. Tom Wright (Australia — Fullback)

Australia’s dependable fullback brings a sharp counter-attacking game and safe hands under the high ball. His positional play and attacking awareness make him a key figure in the Wallabies backline.

QUIZ: Can you name these 10 England one-cap wonders…

This quiz challenges you to identify 10 players who earned the rare distinction of making just one appearance for the England rugby team.

These "one-cap wonders" might have been on the brink of a promising international career, unlucky with competition in their position, or simply never got another chance after their debut.

Test your knowledge and see if you can remember these players who had their brief moment in the England jersey!