Two All Blacks legends linked with shock PREM Rugby move as clubs circle

Rugby Transfer News
Scott Jordie Beauden Barrett
Beauden and Scott Barrett are reportedly being targeted by two PREM Rugby clubs, with Bristol Bears said to be leading the race to sign the All Blacks brothers after the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
According to Planet Rugby, Bristol are in advanced talks with the pair, although Newcastle Red Bulls remain firmly in contention as they look to use their financial backing to attract some of the biggest names in world rugby.
The report, citing several well-placed sources, claims the brothers are being offered as a package deal. Any club hoping to secure their services would therefore need to bring both players on board.
However, neither club has commented on the reports, and no agreement has been signed. Both players remain committed to New Zealand until the conclusion of the World Cup on 13 November 2027.
Their current contracts with New Zealand Rugby run until the end of 2027, with both expected to feature prominently in the All Blacks' plans for the tournament in Australia.
Beyond that, a move to England could appeal as they consider the next stages of their careers, potentially bringing their international journeys to a close while experiencing rugby in the PREM.
Beauden Barrett turns 36 in May 2027 and remains one of the most gifted players of his generation. Equally capable at fly-half or fullback, he made his All Blacks debut in 2012 after establishing himself with Taranaki and the Hurricanes.
His peak came in 2016 and 2017, when he won consecutive World Rugby Player of the Year awards. He became only the second player to achieve the feat, following Richie McCaw.
Barrett also holds the record for winning his first 19 consecutive international Tests, underlining the impact he made from the moment he stepped onto the international stage.
Overseas rugby is nothing new to the playmaker. He has enjoyed two sabbaticals in Japan with Toyota Verblitz and has credited those spells with helping to extend his career.
A move to England would offer another opportunity to test himself in a different environment.
Since making his international debut in 2016, Scott has become a key figure for both the Crusaders and the All Blacks.
He has played a major role in the Crusaders' Super Rugby success and established himself as a regular starter for his country.
Scott also shares a unique piece of All Blacks history with his brothers. In 2018, he, Beauden and Jordie all started together for New Zealand, marking a remarkable moment for the Barrett family.
Signing both players would represent a major financial commitment for either club.
A second marquee salary-cap exemption could be required to accommodate the pair, with the possibility of additional marquee places reportedly already being discussed amid increased investment in PREM Rugby.
The prospect of bringing two All Blacks greats to England would also fit a wider push to attract international stars following the 2027 World Cup.
Daily Mail Sport reported last month that Beauden Barrett, Damian McKenzie, Malcolm Marx and Ox Nche were among the leading international names being touted around English clubs for potential blockbuster moves.
Planet Rugby's claim that the Barrett brothers are being presented as a package adds another intriguing dimension to the race.
Bristol could offer an attractive rugby environment and a style of play suited to Beauden's attacking qualities, while Newcastle Red Bulls have significant financial backing as they look to build a competitive squad.
With both clubs reportedly interested, the prospect of the Barrett brothers arriving together could become one of the biggest transfer stories in English rugby if a deal eventually materialises.

The 10 Greatest Sets of Brothers in Rugby History Ranked

Rugby has produced some remarkable sporting families, with brothers often following each other onto the international stage.
From the powerhouse Tuilagis to New Zealand's famous Barrett trio, some have gone on to win World Cups and become legends of the game.
We've ranked the 10 greatest sets of brothers in rugby union history, based on their achievements, talent and impact on the sport.

10. Tom and Ben Curry – England

The Sale Sharks twins have both represented England, with Tom helping his country reach the 2019 Rugby World Cup final.

9. Ben and Tom Youngs – England

Leicester Tigers legends who both represented England, with Ben becoming his country's most-capped men's player.

8. Richie and Jonny Gray – Scotland

Two towering Scotland internationals who became key figures in the national team's forward pack.

7. Ardie and Julian Savea – New Zealand

Julian won the 2015 World Cup, while Ardie was crowned World Rugby Men's Player of the Year in 2023.

6. Mako and Billy Vunipola – England

The powerful brothers were central to England's success under Eddie Jones, winning multiple Six Nations titles.

5. Gavin and Scott Hastings – Scotland

Scott captained Scotland, while Gavin became one of the country's greatest full-backs and leading points scorers.
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4. Bismarck and Jannie du Plessis – South Africa

The formidable front-row brothers both won the 2007 Rugby World Cup with the Springboks.

3. The Whitelock Brothers – New Zealand

Sam, George, Luke and Adam all played professional rugby, with Sam winning two World Cups with the All Blacks.

2. The Tuilagi Brothers – Samoa/England

One of rugby's most famous families, producing six international brothers renowned for their extraordinary power.

1. Beauden, Scott and Jordie Barrett – New Zealand

All three became All Blacks stars, with Beauden winning two World Rugby Player of the Year awards and the 2015 World Cup.
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