Jack Nowell tipped for English rugby homecoming as five clubs emerge

Rugby Transfer News
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Former England star Jack Nowell could be heading home next summer, with the La Rochelle winger reportedly receiving offers from English clubs.
The 33-year-old joined the French side from Exeter Chiefs in 2023, but his contract expires in June 2027.
Transfer journalist Neil Fissler has reported that Nowell is considering a return home, with his future in France far from certain.
Meanwhile, French publication Midi Olympique claims he has already received offers from across the Channel.
La Rochelle want to keep the former England international, but the two parties have yet to agree on a new deal.
The French club reportedly favour a one-year extension with an option for another season. Nowell is seeking two guaranteed years.
With a return to the Gallagher PREM now a possibility, RUCK looks at five clubs that could offer him a fresh start.

Five possible destinations for Jack Nowell

1. Newcastle Red Bulls

Could Nowell become the next big name to join Newcastle's Red Bull revolution?
The former England winger already has a strong connection to the energy drink giant, having been a Red Bull-sponsored athlete for several years.
Newcastle's new owners have ambitious plans for the club, and signing a proven international would certainly make a statement.
Nowell has won 46 England caps, two Premiership titles and a European Champions Cup.
He would bring leadership and experience to a Newcastle side looking to climb the table.
There is no confirmed interest from the Red Bulls, but the existing sponsorship connection makes this an intriguing possibility.

2. Exeter Chiefs

A return to Sandy Park would be the fairytale ending.
Nowell spent 11 years with Exeter before making the move to France.
During that spell, he helped the Chiefs become one of English rugby's most successful clubs.
He won two Premiership titles and the 2020 Champions Cup under Rob Baxter.
The winger also remains closely linked to the South West, making a return to Devon an obvious option.
Whether Exeter would be willing to bring him back remains to be seen.

3. Bristol Bears

Bristol could offer Nowell another route back into the PREM.
Pat Lam has never been afraid to bring experienced internationals to Ashton Gate.
Nowell's ability to cover wing and full-back could give the Bears another useful option in their backline.
His experience of big European matches would also be valuable.
A move to Bristol would allow him to remain in the West Country without returning to his former club.

4. Gloucester Rugby

Gloucester could also be worth watching.
The Cherry and Whites have a proud history of bringing experienced internationals to Kingsholm.
Nowell would offer versatility across the back three, along with valuable leadership.
His physical style and work rate could also make him a popular figure among Gloucester supporters.
However, there is currently no reported interest from the club.

5. Cornish Pirates

This would be the biggest surprise of the five.
Nowell grew up in Cornwall and has never hidden his affection for the county.
He also previously trained with Cornish Pirates while spending time away from La Rochelle.
RUCK reported on that training stint, which sparked speculation about a possible return to his roots.
A move outside the PREM would be a major step for the former England international.
However, few destinations would offer a more personal homecoming.
Screenshot 2026-10-27 at 07.03.50

Jack Nowell's La Rochelle future

Nowell remains under contract with La Rochelle until June 2027.
Head coach Ronan O'Gara is keen to keep him, but the length of any new agreement appears to be a sticking point.
With offers reportedly arriving from England, the winger has options as he considers the next stage of his career.
None of the five clubs listed above has been publicly identified as having made an offer.
But if Nowell does decide to return home, where would you like to see him play next?
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