byRugby Rucker

part of the Red Bull family – and he’s one of the most recognisable players in world rugby. On-field threat + off-field branding = marketing dream.

Gloucester Rugby have secured the signature of powerhouse prop Nepo Laulala, with the All Black tighthead set to wear Cherry & White for the 2025/26 season.

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After spending the last three months rehabilitating at Kingsholm following a ruptured Achilles, the 53-cap front-rower has now officially committed his future to the club — and is on track to make his return at the start of the league campaign.

The 32-year-old has been a key figure for New Zealand since his debut in 2015, featuring in two Rugby World Cups and helping the All Blacks to third place in Japan (2019) and second in France (2023).

Laulala came through the New Zealand system with Wesley College and Auckland before making the move to Canterbury, impressing enough in the ITM Cup to earn a Super Rugby call-up with the Crusaders. He went on to enjoy successful spells with the Chiefs and Blues, making 38 appearances in his most recent stint with Auckland.

Following the 2023 World Cup, Laulala made the switch to Europe, signing with Top14 giants Toulouse. But his French adventure was short-lived after suffering a serious injury, leading to his release mid-season.

Gloucester stepped in quickly, offering the experienced prop a path to recovery — and now, a return to the Premiership.

Director of Rugby, George Skivington, commented:

“Nepo is a 50-odd cap All Black, and that pretty much speaks for itself in terms of the calibre of player we’ve signed.

“We moved quickly to get him here in the building and start his rehab, which gave us a jump on the other sides and most importantly, Nepo has been really grateful for how we’ve supported him with his injury.

“He’s looking really good, he’s coming through all the tests that we’ve been putting him through, and we’re confident he can have a big impact for us this season.

“A big thanks must go to Rhys Hughes and the Medical Department for the work they’ve done with Nepo.”

Laulala added:

“I’m really grateful to George and everybody at Gloucester for welcoming me to Kingsholm after going through a pretty rough time in France.

“It was a scary time not knowing where my future lay, but I’m looking forward to repaying everybody here for the faith they’ve put in me.

“I’ve heard great things about Gloucester and the Cherry & White fans, and I can’t wait to get out there and play in front of them.”

The Cherry & Whites have added serious muscle to their front row — and Laulala’s set to bring his international class to Kingsholm in 2025.

? 6 Stars Red Bull Could Bring to Newcastle

Let’s dive into the names being discussed behind the scenes – starting with one of rugby’s true giants.

?? 1. Conor Murray

Status: Free agent
CV: 100+ Ireland caps, 3x Lions, Grand Slam winner
Why it fits: You want experience? Leadership? Big-game IQ? Conor Murray has it all. He’s just wrapped up 15 iconic years with Munster and is actively weighing up his next move.

Racing 92 are circling, but Red Bull are believed to be pushing hard behind the scenes to hijack the move and bring him to the Premiership.

At 36, he’s not a long-term project – but as a tactical general to guide Newcastle’s rebuild, he’d be

worth every penny. A true elite organiser with box-kicking precision and icy composure.

? 2. Liam Williams

Status: Free agent
CV: Lions, Wales Grand Slam hero
Why it fits: He’s explosive, fearless, and brings real edge. At 33, he’s still electric – and ready for one more high-profile challenge. A perfect face for the Red Bull revolution.

? 3. Zach Mercer

Status: Available
CV: England No.8, Top 14 champ
Why it fits: Still just 27 and out of contract after leaving Gloucester. He’s physical, smart, and a born leader. Toulon are sniffing – but Red Bull could beat them to it.

? 4. Joe Marchant

Status: In the Top 14
CV: 21 England caps, Premiership title with Quins
Why it fits: A slick centre with pace and pedigree. Bonus? He’s engaged to Alan Shearer’s daughter, Hollie – a link that might just tip the scales.

? 5. Freddie Burns

Status: Free
CV: Prem winner, 200+ appearances
Why it fits: Game-changer, joker, leader. Freddie brings that clutch gene – and would be a steady hand in a new-look backline. Big-game player with serious charisma.