The rugby transfer market is heating up with blockbuster deals and bold ambitions shaping the sport’s landscape across Europe.
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From Antoine Dupont’s record-breaking extension in France to Newcastle’s Red Bull-fuelled recruitment drive, here’s a look at the latest moves and rumours shaking up the rugby world.
Vunipola wants England return
England powerhouse Billy Vunipola is reportedly heading for the Montpellier exit door at the end of the season, with the Top 14 side losing patience over his contract saga.
The French club — currently sitting 11th in the Top 14 with just three wins and a draw from their opening eight matches — had tabled a new deal for the former Saracens No.8, whose current contract runs out next summer.
However, according to reports, Vunipola’s camp were unimpressed by the initial offer and instead used the talks to test the market for potential suitors. Montpellier, frustrated by the lack of progress, are said to have pulled the plug on negotiations so they can line up a replacement.
Now, Newcastle Red Bulls could hand the 32-year-old a sensational route back to the Premiership. The newly rebranded club — backed by energy drink giants Red Bull — are gearing up for a major spending spree and have identified Vunipola as a marquee signing to spearhead their revival.
Antoine Dupont Signs Record-Breaking Toulouse Extension
In a move that underlines his unrivalled status in the game, Antoine Dupont — widely regarded as the best rugby player in the world right now — has signed a four-year contract extension with Toulouse, keeping him at the French powerhouse until 2031.
The deal extends Dupont’s stay from his existing 2027 contract and is reportedly worth a jaw-dropping £1.2 million per season, making the French captain the highest-paid player in world rugby.
Saracens target THREE Wales internationals
Saracens are plotting a bold swoop for Wales prop Nicky Smith once his contract with Leicester Tigers expires at the end of the season — but they’ll have to fend off serious interest from France’s Top 14.
The powerhouse loosehead has been a standout performer for club and country, and his availability has sparked a scramble among Europe’s elite.
According to Rugby Pass, Sarries have already held talks with Smith, as well as his Wales teammates Jac Morgan and Tomas Williams, as they look to bolster their front-row options.
Newcastle Red Bulls Eye Scotland Star Ben White
Townsend insists he won’t be involved in recruitment decisions, but Daily Mail Sport reports that Newcastle are pressing ahead with plans to sign Scotland scrum-half Ben White — potentially the first big addition under the Red Bull umbrella.
White, 26, has become one of Townsend’s most trusted players since making his Scotland debut in 2022.
The London-born No.9 qualifies through his Scottish grandfather and has gone on to win over 25 international caps, earning a reputation for his sharp service, kicking game, and leadership.
After stints with Leicester Tigers, London Irish, and Toulon, the playmaker is now attracting serious interest from both Newcastle and Edinburgh.
