Newcastle Red Bulls XV: Next Season Preview

A monumental squad transformation is on the horizon for the Newcastle Red Bulls this summer, a scale of change rarely witnessed in professional sports.

Following their last-place finish in the Gallagher PREM standings, the club anticipates the departure of twenty-six athletes by season’s end, complemented by the addition of more than twenty new faces. This revamp also includes a shift in leadership, with Dan McFarland stepping in as the new head coach.

This extensive alteration signifies that their core starting fifteen will appear starkly dissimilar from the lineup that concluded the past season with a recent defeat against Gloucester. Presented here is a potential composition of their team for the upcoming campaign:

15. Ethan Grayson
A standout performer during Newcastle’s challenging recent campaigns, this adaptable back is poised to commence his third year with the squad. He is expected to maintain his position as the primary full-back, although the arrival of Benjamin Elizalde could create competition for this role as the season unfolds.

14. Fehi Fineanganofo
His presence represents a major unknown factor for the next season. Should New Zealand Rugby choose not to intervene with the transfer, as speculation indicates, the Red Bulls stand to gain a genuinely thrilling talent. At 23, he led the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific in tries with 16 scores and joins with an escalating reputation as one of the most lethal attacking players in New Zealand rugby.

13. Joji Nasova
Newcastle boasts several strong choices for the outside centre position, where current player Alex Hearle will contend with British & Irish Lion Chris Harris. However, Nasova could prove to be the most captivating prospect. This Fijian Olympic silver medallist joins from the Fijian Drua, having made a significant impact in Super Rugby with his dynamic runs and agile play. His ability to also feature on the wing means he is set to invigorate the backline regardless of his specific role.

12. Sammy Arnold
While Will Rigg will certainly vie for the number 12 jersey in the upcoming season, Sammy Arnold is anticipated to begin as the starter, a position he has rightfully earned.

11. Christian Wade
Although he will reach 36 years of age next season, the ex-England winger has renewed his contract and continues to be among the PREM’s top try-scorers. His seasoned expertise will likely be crucial for a reimagined backline, and he is determined to score eight more tries to break Chris Ashton’s career record – a feat that might be achievable with the support of his new teammates.

10. Zack Henry
This fly-half is transferring from Stade Français, having spent the majority of his professional career in France. His single previous season in England occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic with Leicester Tigers. Having established his name abroad, he now aims to replicate that success on home soil.

9. Raffi Quirke
Recognized as a prominent acquisition for Newcastle, this former Sale Sharks scrum-half boasts two England international appearances. Should he overcome his persistent injury challenges, he has the dynamic talent to elevate the Red Bulls to an elite competitive level.

1. Pouri Rakete-Stones
Yet another addition from the successful Hurricanes squad, this All Blacks XV prop has played an integral role in the Super Rugby league leaders’ scrum, predominantly featuring as a substitute.

2. George Turner
Kingston Park is preparing to welcome another international talent this summer. The Scottish hooker, who has accumulated over 55 Test caps, arrives following a recent stint with Harlequins.

3. Elliot Millar-Mills
Rounding out a front row with a distinct Scottish influence, this tighthead prop contributes Gallagher Premiership-winning expertise from Northampton, having played a role as a replacement in their 2024 championship victory at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham.

4. Franco Molina
This Argentine second-rower joins from the Western Force, where he cemented his reputation as a formidable physical force in Super Rugby. Possessing 19 Pumas caps, a substantial 120kg frame, and prior PREM exposure from a season with Exeter Chiefs in 2024/25, the 28-year-old might prove to be one of Newcastle’s most astute signings.

5. Rusi Tuima
A prominent forward for Exeter Chiefs in recent years, the 26-year-old is eager to further his career and secure full England international recognition, having previously been involved in Steve Borthwick’s squads and playing for England A in 2024. His 128kg mass will contribute to a formidable forward unit in the North East, while his combination of agility and strength is likely to make him a fan favorite.

6. Ollie Leatherbarrow
Sam Graham, newly joining from Northampton Saints, will compete for a starting spot; however, Leatherbarrow has merited retaining his position in the starting fifteen, having been one of the Red Bulls’ bright spots during a challenging season. The 24-year-old might transition from number 8, with a move to the flank being a distinct possibility for an athlete whom Newcastle’s sporting general manager, Neil McIlroy, praised for having “considerable potential” upon his contract extension earlier this season.

7. Tom Christie
This ex-Crusaders flanker was among the initial signings in Newcastle’s radical restructuring and emerged as an indispensable component of their forward unit this past season.

8. Hoskins Sotutu
This could be considered the most significant transfer of the summer. The All Black joins from the Blues, bringing with him nearly 100 Super Rugby matches and international recognition for New Zealand. Crucially, the 14-cap All Black, by virtue of his English heritage on his mother’s side, is now qualified to represent England, having fulfilled the compulsory three-year waiting period.