As the rugby summer transfer window approaches, there are several exciting potential moves that fans should keep an eye on. These transfers could significantly impact the teams involved and the dynamics of the upcoming season. Here are five of the most intriguing transfer rumours currently circulating.
1.Juan Schoeman to South Africa
South African prop Juan Schoeman is poised to return to South Africa after his stint with Bath in the English Premiership. According to RugbyPass, the Lions are keen on securing his services to bolster their front row for the upcoming United Rugby Championship season.
Schoeman, who has previously played for the Sharks and the Blue Bulls, is expected to be a valuable addition to the Lions’ squad, given his extensive experience and proven capabilities in the front row.
2. Telusa Veainu to Soyaux Angouleme XV Charente
Telusa Veainu, the Tongan full-back currently playing for Sale Sharks, is rumoured to be making a move to France. His contract with Sale Sharks is ending, and multiple sources suggest that he is set to join a French club, namely ProD2 side Soyaux Angouleme XV Charente, alongside Jonny May.
This comes after a year back in the Premiership following his stint with Stade Français in the Top 14. The specific French club has not been confirmed yet, but the move is expected to happen ahead of the next season as Veainu continues his professional rugby career in a new league.
3. Adam Radwan to Gloucester
Newcastle Falcons winger Adam Radwan is reportedly on Gloucester’s radar, with the Cherry and Whites interested in bringing him to Kingsholm. However, the move is not planned for the upcoming season but rather for the 2025-2026 campaign.
Radwan, who is currently under contract with Newcastle, was set to participate in the Great Britain Sevens training camp for the 2024 Olympics, who failed to qualify. Radwan would require a transfer fee to facilitate an early release from his current deal.
4. Sam James to France/Japan
Sam James, a long-serving player at Sale Sharks, is set to leave the club after nearly 250 appearances. His departure has been confirmed by Sale Sharks, and he is reportedly in discussions with French Top 14 club Pau.
Additionally, there are also juicy rumours that James could be heading to Japan. James, who joined Sale in 2012 and has played in various positions including centre, fly-half, and full-back, is looking forward to the next chapter in his career.
5. Mason Grady to the English Premiership
Cardiff star Mason Grady is attracting interest from four Premiership clubs—Bath, Saracens, Sale Sharks, and Exeter Chiefs. Bath is currently the front-runner, but no official move has been confirmed.
If Grady transfers to an English club, he would be ineligible for future Wales international selections due to Welsh Rugby Union policies.
Round-up
These transfer rumours highlight some of the key moves that could reshape the landscape of rugby union in the upcoming season. Fans will be eagerly watching these developments as the transfer window progresses, hoping to see how their favourite teams strengthen their rosters for future challenges.
