Rugby transfer round-up: Henry Pollock going nowhere as major moves confirmed

Friday, 04 September 2026 at 09:15

byCharlie Elliott

With just weeks to go until the start of the season, the transfer market continues to deliver plenty of talking points, and several big names are at the centre of it all.

Follow @RuckTransfers on Instagram for the latest rugby transfer news

From major contract developments in PREM Rugby to players attracting interest from overseas, there has been plenty happening behind the scenes.

Here is a look at some of the biggest transfer news and rumours to emerge over the past few days.

Henry Pollock to STAY at Northampton Saints

Despite earlier reports suggesting Henry Pollock had agreed a deal with Newcastle Red Bulls, RUCK understands that the proposed move is now OFF.

The England star has instead committed his future to boyhood club Northampton Saints after agreeing a new two-year contract extension.

The deal is understood to be worth more than £750,000 in total and will keep Pollock at Franklin’s Gardens until 2029.

Newcastle Red Bulls had reportedly matched Eddie Hearn’s £1m valuation and offered the back-rower a three-year marquee player deal.

However, Pollock has opted to remain with Saints.

Munster make move for Irish-qualified talent

RUCK understands that former Wales Under-21 international Macs Page has received an offer to join Munster.

The 21-year-old Scarlets centre is Irish-qualified, making him an appealing option for the province while also potentially opening the door to greater international opportunities should he decide to switch allegiance from Wales.

A Pembrokeshire product, Page spent part of his youth on the books of Swansea City Football Club before pursuing a career in rugby.

The talented centre is renowned for his sharp running and X-Factor, with a knack for producing spectacular tries. He won Scarlets’ try of the season award for his outstanding effort against Zebre during the 2024-25 campaign.

His departure would represent a major blow for Scarlets and could potentially be a significant loss for Wales too. No deal has been agreed at this stage, but it is certainly one to keep an eye on.

James O'Connor joins Western Force

James O’Connor is heading back to familiar surroundings after signing a one-year deal with Western Force following his spell with Leicester Tigers.

The 36-year-old made his professional debut for the Force as a teenager and will now return to Perth for what could prove to be the final season of his illustrious career.

O’Connor is also expected to take on a mentorship role, with the possibility of combining his playing duties with a player-coach position.

The 68-cap Wallaby remains determined to earn a place in Australia’s squad for next year’s home Rugby World Cup.

Harlequins sign Edward Sigauke

Harlequins have completed the signing of exciting Zimbabwe international Edward Sigauke.

The 22-year-old winger has scored eight tries in 12 appearances for his country and has built a reputation for his blistering pace and impressive footwork.

Sigauke played a role in Zimbabwe’s qualification for the 2027 Rugby World Cup and will now get the opportunity to test himself in PREM Rugby.

He could face England during the pool stage in Australia next year.

The winger has now joined up with the Harlequins squad as he begins the next chapter of his career.

Argentina international prop joins Newcastle Red Bulls

Argentina prop Francisco Moreno is joining Newcastle Red Bulls. The move has now been officially announced after RUCK previously reported that the deal was done.

The 24-year-old tighthead prop made his Test debut for Los Pumas against world champions South Africa earlier this month and will arrive at Kingston Park on a one-year contract.

Standing at 6ft 1in and weighing 143kg, Moreno featured for Tarucas during this year’s Super Rugby Americas competition.

Currently away with Argentina, he will link up with fellow countrymen Franco Molina and Simón Benítez Cruz when he arrives at Newcastle.

Beno Obano linked with move to France

England prop Beno Obano is set to leave Bath after 13 years, with a move to France now a possibility.

The 31-year-old is considering his future, with Section Paloise reportedly leading the race for his signature, according to L’Equipe.

A move could represent one of Obano’s final opportunities to secure a significant payday during his playing career, while also giving him the chance to experience life abroad.

A switch to France would also put his England career on hold under the current selection rules.