Jack Willis is about to all but end his England career
The 27-year-old, who was a member of the all-conquering Toulouse squad that won the Top 14 and Investec Champions Cup double last …
Neil Fissler
17 Oct 2024, 8:12
Contributors
Neil Fissler
@neilfissler
Neil Fissler is an experienced Fleet Street hack with the Daily Star Sunday and then the Sunday Express and has been breaking most of rugby's biggest transfer stories for over 20 years for Rugby Times, The Rugby Paper and now RugbyPass. A respected historian who has written over 20 books.
Fissler Confidential: England and Scotland centres' future in play
With the Gallagher Premiership club tight on the salary cap, he has yet to reach an agreement amid links with Glasgow and Scotland…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
19 Oct 2024, 8:28
Ireland centre Bundee Aki in talks with Toulon
Toulon have launched an ambitious attempt to lure Ireland and Lions inside centre Bundee Aki to the Cote d’Azur when his contrac…
Neil Fissler
25 Oct 2024, 5:29
Struggling Exeter Chiefs start Henry Slade after England release
England outside centre Henry Slade will make his first appearance of the season as Exeter Chiefs look to end their worst start to …
Neil Fissler
25 Oct 2024, 6:59
Leicester Tigers eye reunion with Wales star as Pollard doubts persist
The 30-year-old Pollard, who has won 80 caps for his country, played for the Bulls, Red Hurricanes Osaka and Montpellier before ar…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
07 Oct 2024, 3:59
Fissler Confidential: Sam Simmonds' future in France
He is in the second and final year of his contract with Montpellier but is believed to have an option for a third season.
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
05 Oct 2024, 7:22
Ireland No.8 Jack Conan eyed by Top 14 giants Racing 92
Ireland and Lions star Jack Conan is on the radar of Top 14 strugglers Racing 92 as they step up attempts to replace departed Spri…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
30 Sep 2024, 9:35
Johnny Sexton to make dramatic return to Ireland set-up?
Sexton called time on an illustrious playing career after Ireland were knocked out of the Rugby World Cup in October 2023 and was …
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
28 Sep 2024, 9:28
Fissler Confidential: Premiership club set to go to market early
The Cherry and Whites defeated Bristol Bears 44-41 in a classic west country derby on Friday night and are in the market to sign a…
Neil Fissler
28 Sep 2024, 8:59
Steve Diamond lifts lid on failed 'Manchester City Sharks' pitch
Steve Diamond has revealed that he pitched three times to Premier League giants Manchester City about buying his former club, Sale…
Neil Fissler
26 Sep 2024, 13:57
Makazole Mapimpi transfer story: Sharks take action
The 34-year-old, who in 2019 became the first South African to score a try in a Rugby World Cup final, has been linked with a swit…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
26 Sep 2024, 11:06
Rob Baxter explains spying mission plan to fix depleted Exeter squad
The Chiefs director of rugby was set to travel to Topham on a spying mission on Wednesday afternoon to watch Exeter University ope…
Neil Fissler
25 Sep 2024, 7:11
Fissler Confidential: Bath's Ben Spencer issue, Paddy Jackson rumours
Bath are considering Harlequins scrum-half Will Porter as a potential replacement for Ben Spencer, who is out of contract at the e…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
22 Sep 2024, 6:59
Joe Simmonds won't be returning to England anytime soon
Joe Simmonds will be staying in France until the summer of 2028, at least after penning a three-year contract extension to remain …
Neil Fissler
19 Sep 2024, 9:54
Northampton Saints turn to giant lock Will Spencer
Northampton Saints are set to turn to former Leicester Tigers and Bath lock Will Spencer as an injury replacement with the new sea…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
15 Sep 2024, 9:04
Fissler Confidential: Sharks facing Ox-it? 7 clubs enter bidding war
The 29-year-old, who has made 61 appearances for the Sharks since 2020 after starting his career with the Cheetahs, is on the verg…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
14 Sep 2024, 4:46
Gloucester line up England's Callum Chick to replace Zach Mercer
Gloucester have lined up Newcastle Falcons No.8 Callum Chick as their replacement for Zach Mercer, who is heading for the Kingshol…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
12 Sep 2024, 7:50
Warren Gatland racing to recruit Exeter's Zack Wimbush for Wales
Hong Kong-born Wimbush, who is on apprenticeship terms at Sandy Park and celebrates his 21st birthday next month, qualifies for bo…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
10 Sep 2024, 11:28
Fissler Confidential: England coach contenders and D-Mac Top 14-bound
Nick Easter has emerged as a strong contender to be England’s new defence coach after continuing to impress working with the USA…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
08 Sep 2024, 8:39
Fissler Extra: Danny Care's future in focus as Ben Youngs takes new job
Veteran Harlequins scrum-half Danny Care is getting ready for his 20th season in professional rugby, but don’t rule him out of c…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
04 Sep 2024, 9:22
Exeter land Pumas lock Franco Molina as Dafydd Jenkins replacement
Exeter Chiefs have landed Argentina lock Franco Molina as a replacement for Wales skipper Dafydd Jenkins, who will miss the start …
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
04 Sep 2024, 6:37
After weeks of stalemate Siya Kolisi to Sharks is back on
Siya Kolisi’s on-off return to the Sharks is firmly back on again after American businessman Vincent Mai stepped in and offered …
Neil Fissler
01 Sep 2024, 8:49
The reality of Tadhg Furlong's IRFU contract negotiations
Tadhg Furlong is in the final year of his contract and will soon have to decide his future. This decision will have a profound eff…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
01 Sep 2024, 8:27
Fissler Confidential: George Ford's swansong, England to lose another coach?
Ford will celebrate his 32nd birthday next March and is now in the final year of his contract with Sale Sharks.
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
31 Aug 2024, 7:30
Johan Ackermann drops big hint on future with podcast admission
Johan Ackermann admits that he wants to move back to South Africa when his contract with Japanese outfit Urayasu D-Rocks runs out …
Neil Fissler
29 Aug 2024, 10:53
Fissler Confidential: The possible sting in the tail for Felix Jones amid shock exit
Racing 92 are the latest club to be linked with a move for Gloucester and England back row Zach Mercer, who is out of contract at …
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
25 Aug 2024, 8:58
Wallaby Jordan Petaia on brink of NFL code switch
Jordan Petaia, once touted as one of the best talents in Australian rugby, is at the centre of a tug-of-war between the NFL and We…
Neil Fissler
22 Aug 2024, 12:27
Plot twist in Paris as Siya Kolisi deal on verge of collapse
Siya Kolisi’s much-anticipated return to the Sharks could be on the brink of collapse after talks between the South African club…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
22 Aug 2024, 8:49
Fissler Confidential: Springbok poised to leave, Ford heading home
The word is that the Sharks, who have now got Junior Boks U20 internationals Julius under contract until 2027 and Bester until 202…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
17 Aug 2024, 6:19
Ben Volavola set to become the fourth 2024/25 Leicester signing
The 33-year-old is a former Australia U20s cap who has been looking for a new club since being one of 36 players released by Agen …
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
15 Aug 2024, 8:03
Montpellier sign Rebels halfback Ryan Louwrens
Montpellier have just made South African scrum-half Ryan Louwrens their 15th new signing ahead of the new season, as Mohed Altradâ…
Neil Fissler
12 Aug 2024, 6:39
Gloucester eye France back row Ibrahim Diallo
Gloucester, who finished ninth in the Premiership last season, are one of the clubs that have registered an interest in signing Ra…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
12 Aug 2024, 6:21
Fissler Confidential: Exeter see off Saracens as NRL pinch NZ Olympian
The Top 14 giants are still locked in talks with the Sharks as they look to agree on a transfer fee for the double Rugby World Cup…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
10 Aug 2024, 7:03
Stormers recruit free agent Dave Ewers following his Ulster release
The 33-year-old blindside flanker, who was a member of the Exeter Chiefs side that won the Champions Cup/Premiership double in 202…
Neil Fissler
08 Aug 2024, 10:04
The Vincent Tshituka twist in Siya Kolisi's Parisian escape
Siya Kolisi’s imminent return to the Sharks is set to encourage a host of French clubs to pursue a move for Vincent Tshituka, wh…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
05 Aug 2024, 10:26
Siya Kolisi to sign for Sharks after shock Racing 92 exit
Siya Kolisi is this week set to seal a return to his former club, the Sharks, after holding more talks with French giants Racing 9…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
04 Aug 2024, 11:13
Fissler Confidential: England star opens talks; Boks hooker digs in
The Sharks are looking to tie down one of the biggest names, who was a 2019 Rugby World Cup runner-up and a 2021 British and Irish…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
03 Aug 2024, 7:35
Siya Kolisi set for sensational Racing 92 exit
The 33-year-old is one of the world’s highest-paid players, earning around €1million a season, and only joined Racing after sk…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
02 Aug 2024, 5:39
Bok prop Ruan Dreyer to jump ship to South African URC rivals
Ruan Dreyer is on his way from the Lions after speculation about his long-term future with the Johannesburg club continued to gath…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
29 Jul 2024, 9:11
Three Test Lions among 10 rugby free agents still looking for clubs
The life of a professional rugby player isn’t as secure as it once was. Since Covid and three Premiership clubs going bust, ther…
Neil Fissler
28 Jul 2024, 10:36
'There’s not much time' - LRZ's NFL career up against the clock
Louis Rees-Zammit is working around the clock to make sure his dream of playing in the NFL becomes reality as he moves ever closer…
Neil Fissler
28 Jul 2024, 9:17
Fissler Confidential: Snubbed Evan Roos heading to exit?
Premiership champions Northampton Saints have been taking an extended look at Australian rugby league player Sione Vaenuku during …
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
27 Jul 2024, 8:30
Melvyn Jaminet fighting for Toulon career amid protests outside club
Melvyn Jaminet will be fighting for his future with Toulon after being summoned to attend showdown talks with club bosses on Tuesd…
Neil Fissler
22 Jul 2024, 12:26
Ex-England centre Ollie Devoto to play National League 2 rugby
Former England centre Ollie Devoto is set to take a significant step down in class as he stands on the verge of signing a contract…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
22 Jul 2024, 11:56
Leinster flanker Martin Moloney on trial at Exeter Chiefs
Exeter Chiefs have taken Leinster’s former Ireland under-20 international blindside flanker Martin Moloney on trial during pre-s…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
22 Jul 2024, 11:13
Vaea Fifita snubs New Zealand Super Rugby return
The Scarlets have pulled off a massive coup after holding off the advances of Super Rugby outfit Moana Pasifika to retain the serv…
Neil Fissler
22 Jul 2024, 7:07
Fissler Confidential: Bath target Saracens' England star
Premiership finalists Bath are gearing up for a crack at Saracens and England hooker Theo Dan as they look for a big name to repla…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
20 Jul 2024, 7:37
Ex-NZ U20 centre Tamati Tua set for preseason in England with deal done
Exeter Chiefs have ended their long search for a new centre after signing up Tamati Tua, who has been the mainstay of the ACT Brum…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
17 Jul 2024, 9:35
Harry Williams to reunite with Exeter teammate after Montpellier exit
Former England tighthead Harry Williams has joined his former Exeter Chiefs team-mate Joe Simmonds at Top 14 outfit Pau less than …
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
16 Jul 2024, 6:02
Stuart Hogg to stand trial during Top 14 season
Former Scotland captain Hogg, 32, dressed in a blue jumper, submitted not guilty pleas at his latest brief court appearance earlie…
Neil Fissler
15 Jul 2024, 15:06
Leinster confirm worst kept secret signing of Rabah Slimani
Leinster have ended weeks of speculation by signing former France tighthead prop Rabah Slimani from ASM Clermont Auvergne.
Neil Fissler
15 Jul 2024, 6:34
Wales player ratings vs Australia | July Series 2nd Test
Wales player ratings: Joe Schmidt's Australia delivered an all action performance to edge out Wales 36-28 in a closely contested s…
Opinion
Neil Fissler
13 Jul 2024, 8:38
Fissler Confidential: A big week for Stuart Hogg
Former Scotland full-back Stuart Hogg will take his first steps back into rugby when he reports for pre-season training with Montp…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
13 Jul 2024, 5:42
Fissler Confidential: Deal lined up for Willis as Bok eyes Prem move
Toulouse would like openside Jack Willis to slam the door shut on talk of a return to the Premiership by putting pen to paper on a…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
06 Jul 2024, 6:31
Vannes add ex-All Black to ambitious recruitment drive
Vannes continue to prepare for life in the Top 14 after signing former All Black centre Francis Saili, as predicted in Fissler Con…
Neil Fissler
04 Jul 2024, 11:27
Stuart Hogg spends night in cells and given prison warning
Stuart Hogg has been warned that he will be sent to prison if there is another breach of his bail conditions after he admitted con…
Neil Fissler
04 Jul 2024, 7:03
Fifteen politicians who swapped rugby for public affairs
Residents of England, Scotland, Northern Ireland, and Wales head to the polls on Thursday for a general election, while France hel…
Analysis
Neil Fissler
01 Jul 2024, 10:52
Fissler Confidential: Gloucester win tug-of-war as Glasgow enter one
Gloucester has won their tug-of-war with Japan League One big guns Yokohama Canon Eagles to keep highly-rated back row Ruan Ackerm…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
29 Jun 2024, 6:08
Toulon confirm worst kept transfer secret of the season
Toulon have finally officially confirmed the worst-kept news of last season. They are taking England stars Kyle Sinckler and Lewis…
Neil Fissler
24 Jun 2024, 12:21
Michael Cheika leading race to be next Leicester Tigers king
Leicester Tigers are in advanced talks with former Australia coach Michael Cheika after they dramatically announced the sacking of…
Neil Fissler
22 Jun 2024, 13:10
Wales player ratings vs South Africa | June Tests 2024
Wales player ratings: Warren Gatland's Wales were brave but just didn't have the firepower to live with the Springboks after a yel…
Opinion
Neil Fissler
22 Jun 2024, 11:49
Fissler Confidential: Saracens sign ex-England hooker as Leinster prop deal edges closer
Saracens have completed a deal that will see former England hooker Rob Webber join Mark McCall’s coaching staff as their new scr…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
22 Jun 2024, 5:37
The Wales team that beat South Africa in 1999: Where are they now?
The Millennium Stadium was still a building site in June 1999 on what turned out to be one of the best days in the modern history …
Neil Fissler
21 Jun 2024, 5:42
Stuart Hogg U-turn confirmed by Montpellier
Montpellier owner Mohed Altrad has confirmed that Scotland and Lions full-back Stuart Hogg is coming out of retirement to join the…
Neil Fissler
19 Jun 2024, 0:53
Mako Vunipola on verge of signing for Vannes
The former England and Lions loose-head is in advanced talks to secure a move across the English Channel to join Top 14 new boys V…
Neil Fissler
18 Jun 2024, 17:42
Montpellier sack Patrice Collazo 24 hours after relegation escape
Montpellier have rewarded Patrice Collazo for saving them from relegation with the sack less than 24 hours after winning the Top 1…
Neil Fissler
17 Jun 2024, 14:26
Glasgow Warriors player ratings vs Munster | 2023/24 URC semi-final
Glasgow Warriors player ratings:Â The Warriors recovered from a dodgy start, particularly in the forwards, but settled and were br…
Opinion
Neil Fissler
16 Jun 2024, 6:21
Fissler Confidential: Sharks hunt Bok as Prem club launch desperate search
The 28-year-old, who has won six caps since making his debut in The Rugby Championship win over Argentina in August 2021, played 2…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
15 Jun 2024, 8:31
Gloucester swiftly replace Fraser Balmain with ex-England U20 prop
RugbyPass exclusively revealed on Wednesday that Saracens boss Mark McCall is ready to make the former Leicester Tigers man Balmai…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
12 Jun 2024, 12:11
Saracens make prop Fraser Balmain their sixth signing for 2024/25
The 32-year-old Loughborough University-educated Balmain made 139 appearances for the Cherry and Whites since joining in 2017. He …
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
12 Jun 2024, 8:09
Ulster player ratings vs Leinster | 2023/24 URC quarter-finals
Ulster player ratings: Richie Murphy's men failed to execute when they held the upper hand in the opening quarter in Dublin and th…
Opinion
Neil Fissler
08 Jun 2024, 15:16
'He's gone' - Tearful Beno Obano costs Bath with moment of madness
Beno Obano will take an unwanted place in the history books after being only the second player to be sent off for a high tackle fo…
Neil Fissler
08 Jun 2024, 11:12
Fissler Confidential: Wallaby's early exit? England star sighted in Toulon
Former England back row Zach Mercer was in Toulon this week for a guided tour, with a possible 2025 move to the Cote D’Azur on t…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
08 Jun 2024, 8:13
NRL superstar Joey Manu may ditch Super bid for France
Joey Manu is already being hawked around Top 14 clubs for a move at the end of next season after his one-year deal to play in Japa…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
07 Jun 2024, 12:11
Where are they now? The Bath 1988/89 Courage League title winners
The West Country giants currently have six titles to their name – the same as Saracens and Wasps – but are still five short of…
Analysis
Neil Fissler
05 Jun 2024, 11:57
Tug-of-war between French, Japanese clubs to sign Sale's Sam James
The former Edgeley Park ballboy played 244 games for his boyhood club, but his Sharks career ended with last Saturday’s league s…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
04 Jun 2024, 11:56
Fissler Confidential: The latest twist in where next for Jonny May
It is unlikely to be enough to tempt May into moving to SA XV, who finished in 12th place in this season’s Pro D2. He is likely …
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
01 Jun 2024, 6:00
Ruan Ackermann to quit Gloucester despite signing contract extension
Fissler Confidential exclusive revealed last Saturday, just hours after the EPCR Challenge Cup final defeat at the hands of the Sh…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
31 May 2024, 5:05
Move to France still on for Curwin Bosch despite Montpellier snub
The 26-year-old was due to be under contract to the Sharks until 2026, but he was in advanced talks over a move to Montpellier unt…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
30 May 2024, 12:43
'Superb' short-term signing Hyron Andrews lands new deal with Sale
The 28-year-old joined the Manchester-based Sharks in March from their United Rugby Championship Durban-based namesakes on a short…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
30 May 2024, 12:02
Fissler Confidential: Premiership DoR fears for his future
Ruan Ackermann could be set to leave Premiership strugglers Gloucester despite the back-row only committing his future and signing…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
25 May 2024, 5:29
The 2009 Heineken Cup finalists: Where are they now?
Leinster had watched Munster win two out of three Heineken Cup finals before they booked their place in the Murrayfield final by h…
Analysis
Neil Fissler
23 May 2024, 12:43
French club could be set to reunite Simmonds brothers
A family reunion for former England and Lions back-row Sam Simmonds and his younger brother Joe at Pau could be on the cards if ne…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
19 May 2024, 6:39
Prop Schoeman eyed up for return to South Africa
Juan Schoeman could leave Bath at the end of the season and return home to South Africa, where he is wanted by the Lions, who are …
Neil Fissler
18 May 2024, 7:49
Fissler Confidential: Jonny May's next club and Bok forced to retire
News is reaching Fissler Confidential Towers that May is one of several players released by Premiership clubs who are waiting to s…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
18 May 2024, 3:45
Stuart Hogg in talks with Gallagher Premiership club
Former Scotland captain and Lions star Stuart Hogg has spoken to Newcastle Falcons about a potential return to rugby just a season…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
17 May 2024, 11:45
Fissler Confidential: Ulster keen on NZ 10 as Shark departs English shores
The 22-year-old Irish-qualified Morgan has struggled to get a game for the Hurricanes this season, with All Black Brett Cameron es…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
11 May 2024, 8:18
Munster line up Tom Farrell to replace Antoine Frisch
Munster are understood to have lined up Connacht’s long-serving former Ireland under-20 international outside centre Tom Farrell…
Neil Fissler
09 May 2024, 13:28
15 more of the biggest transfer flops in rugby union history
After releasing the first part of our worst signings in rugby history series, we opened the doors for readers' suggestions to go a…
Opinion
Neil Fissler
09 May 2024, 13:18
Fissler Confidential: Wallaby medical and England prop faces axe
Exeter Chiefs will complete the signing of Hunter Paisami after the Wallaby centre underwent a medical Down Under ahead of the mov…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
04 May 2024, 7:04
Leinster No.8 Max Deegan to switch provinces
Ulster are poised to steam the flow of players leaving Belfast after swooping on Champions Cup semi-finalists Leinster to land Ire…
Neil Fissler
03 May 2024, 13:57
How much Toulon paid Munster for Antoine Frisch
Antoine Frisch will sign a four-year deal with Top 14 giants Toulon after they agreed a €300,000 (£257,524) transfer fee with M…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
03 May 2024, 13:08
SRU on verge of landing Mosese Tuipulotu from Tahs
Gregor Townsend is on the verge of luring NSW Waratahs inside centre Mosese Tuipulotu to Scotland to reunite with elder Sione, jus…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
02 May 2024, 13:55
Gloucester in talks with former England lock prospect
Gloucester have had talks with lock Elliott Stooke about making a return to Kingsholm when his contract with bitter West Country r…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
02 May 2024, 11:56
Hacjivah Dayimani exits SA on back of Springboks snub
French giants Racing 92 are poised to make their fourth signing for next season, with Stormers back-row Hacjivah Dayimani on the v…
Neil Fissler
02 May 2024, 9:28
Henry Slade and Exeter Chiefs smash stalemate with new deal
England outside centre Henry Slade has pledged his future to Exeter Chiefs by finally signing a new one-year contract with the opt…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
02 May 2024, 8:17
Fissler Confidential: Radwan eyed to replace exit-bound England wing
Gloucester are keeping tabs on Newcastle Falcons flyer Adam Radwan, but it is not a move that they are planning for next season. I…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
27 Apr 2024, 6:28
Ex-Springboks assistant Frans Ludeke a shock contender to land URC job
Kubota Spears boss Frans Ludeke has emerged as a shock contender to take over the reins at the financially troubled United Rugby C…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
24 Apr 2024, 7:49
Mark McCall launches centre search after serious Olly Hartley setback
The 22-year-old is set to miss the rest of 2024 after it was revealed he suffered ACL damage in the 46-24 victory in London, which…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
24 Apr 2024, 6:20
Philippe Saint-Andre targeted for DoR role - report
Lyon have approached former France coach Philippe Saint-André to become Director of Rugby and work alongside current boss Fabien …
Neil Fissler
22 Apr 2024, 13:42
Johann Ackermann ready to walk out on club to make return
Johan Ackermann admits that he could return to South Africa at the end of the season despite having another year left to run on hi…
Neil Fissler
22 Apr 2024, 8:16
Former Leinster star set to join Castres staff
Castres head coach, former Ireland and Lions lock Jeremy Davidson, has turned to Chris Whitaker to fill his vacant attack coach jo…
Neil Fissler
22 Apr 2024, 6:36
Fissler Confidential: Outlandish Maro Itoje rumour put to bed
You could have been forgiven for thinking April Fools Day is happening twice this year after far-fetched rumours reached Fissler C…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
20 Apr 2024, 6:57
14 rugby transfers to get excited about ahead of next season
Leinster's signing of Jordie Barrett from the Hurricanes is maybe the standout move in this season's flurry of rugby transfers.
Neil Fissler
18 Apr 2024, 11:04
Ex-All Black Aaron Cruden emerges as a candidate for Ireland move
Ulster are considering a move for veteran former All Blacks playmaker Aaron Cruden as they look to increase their options at fly-h…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
16 Apr 2024, 12:10
Stormers fight off English interest in Connor Evans
The Stormers have moved to keep highly-rated lock Connor Evans out of the clutches of admiring Premiership clubs after signing him…
Neil Fissler
14 Apr 2024, 11:28
England centre Guy Porter set for Super switch
England centre Guy Porter looks set to be on the move to Super Rugby after Leicester Tigers announced he was leaving at the end of…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
13 Apr 2024, 7:13
Munster and IRFU circling England centres
Munster have drawn up a wish list to replace Antoine Frisch, who is firmly in the sights of big-spending Toulon after pledging his…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
13 Apr 2024, 6:58
Fissler Confidential: Exeter eye Welsh star as Scottish one exits
Tonga lock Vaea Fifita is being marketed to clubs in France and Japan, with the Scarlets seemingly willing to offload his estimate…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
13 Apr 2024, 5:54
14 of the biggest transfer flops in rugby union history
RG Snyman was branded the worst signing ever following Munster’s Champions Cup at the hands of Northampton Saints last weekend.
Opinion
Neil Fissler
11 Apr 2024, 10:44
Toulon owner may have given up on signing Zach Mercer
Toulon owner Bernard Lemaitre has moved to pour cold water on a potential move to the Cote d’Azur this summer for England intern…
Neil Fissler
08 Apr 2024, 10:45
Scotland and Exeter prop Alec Hepburn to join Scarlets
Scotland and former England loosehead Alec Hepburn will become the latest international to leave Exeter Chiefs when his contract r…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
06 Apr 2024, 8:48
Fissler Confidential: Leinster's up-hill battle for Taniela Tupou
Antoine Frisch pledging his international allegiances to France might not be enough to secure himself a move to one of a trio of T…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
06 Apr 2024, 7:41
Saracens announce Owen Farrell successor
Gallagher Premiership champions Saracens have confirmed the signing of fly-half Fergus Burke from the Crusaders as the long-term r…
Neil Fissler
02 Apr 2024, 12:16
Fissler Confidential: Faf too expensive? Quins line up Sinfield
Montpellier were rebuffed in a move for the 26-year-old, so they went for Billy Vunipola instead. However, the whispers are that M…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
30 Mar 2024, 6:44
Misguided pile-ons do more harm than good to women's rugby
In my job, social media is a necessary evil, but the cesspit that is X, formally Twitter, managed to outdo itself this week after …
Opinion
Neil Fissler
29 Mar 2024, 11:42
Toulon president confirms signing of England duo
Toulon president Bernard Lemaitre has confirmed that England internationals Kyle Sinckler and Lewis Ludlam have signed three-year …
Neil Fissler
28 Mar 2024, 13:32
Danny Care shuns French offers to stay in England
Danny Care is set to end speculation on his future by signing a one-year deal to extend his career with Harlequins and turn his ba…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
28 Mar 2024, 6:34
Louis Rees-Zammit signs for Roc Nation ahead of his Kansas visit
The former Wales winger has linked up with the management giants after visiting the Cleveland Browns, New York Jets and Denver Bro…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
26 Mar 2024, 13:02
Mako Vunipola has held talks about joining Billy at Montpellier
The 33-year-old prop, who missed the Rugby World Cup earlier this season because of a back injury, retired from international rugb…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
26 Mar 2024, 8:41
Super Bowl champs eye NFL hopeful Louis Rees-Zammit
Super Bowl champions, the Kansas City Chiefs, have emerged as potential contenders in the race to sign up former Wales superstar L…
Neil Fissler
25 Mar 2024, 10:58
Saracens drop biggest clue yet on Owen Farrell's replacment
Saracens have dropped a major hint that they have reached an agreement to sign highly-rated Crusaders fly-half Fergus Burke after …
Neil Fissler
24 Mar 2024, 7:23
Fissler Confidential: Owen Farrell's replacement... and a Bok rebuffing
Toulon and Montpellier are among the Top 14 clubs exploring the possibility of taking Munster outside centre Antoine Frisch back t…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
23 Mar 2024, 4:52
Rees-Zammit's vist 2 teams as his NFL journey heats up
Louis Rees-Zammit is taking another giant step towards a career in the NFL as he begins a series of team visits after dazzling on …
Neil Fissler
22 Mar 2024, 13:16
Billy Vunipola turned down Super Rugby deal for France
Billy Vunipola has turned down a move to Australia to join French outfit Montpellier on a two-year deal when his contract with Pre…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
21 Mar 2024, 11:00
Louis Rees-Zammit receives offers from 3 NFL franchises
The 23-year-old Rees-Zammit is on a 10-week crash course to prepare to play American football as part of the 2024 International Pl…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
20 Mar 2024, 15:47
The Rob Baxter update on the future of Henry Slade at Exeter
Slade spoke to Top 14 leaders Stade Francais after being left out of his country’s Rugby World Cup squad earlier this season, bu…
Neil Fissler
20 Mar 2024, 10:36
Fissler Confidential: Tuilagi due in Bayonne, Leicester's new centre
England centre Manu Tuilagi is due in Bayonne on Monday for talks that could finally settle his future despite a double-late bid f…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
16 Mar 2024, 6:54
Werner Kok to become the first Ulster signing for 2024/25
Fissler Confidential reported a couple of weeks ago that Kok, the 31-year-old who won a bronze medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics and …
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
13 Mar 2024, 7:21
Rory Hutchinson has agreed a contract extension at Northampton
Saints director of rugby Phil Dowson told a media call on Tuesday that news about the future of Cambridge-born Hutchinson, who is …
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
13 Mar 2024, 6:58
Scotland centre Matt Scott ready to leave Leicester Tigers
Former Scotland international Matt Scott has spoken to Edinburgh about signing up for a third spell when his contract with Leicest…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
11 Mar 2024, 11:24
Harlequins' last ditch bid to gazump Leicester for Izaia Perese
Harlequins have made a late bid to snatch the signing of NSW Waratahs and Wallaby ace Izaia Perese, who has been having talks wit…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
11 Mar 2024, 7:10
Arrogant Ireland cheerleaders brought down to earth with a slap
It is unbelievable to think that after one swing of Marcus Smith’s right foot, England can be crowned Six Nations Champions in L…
Opinion
Neil Fissler
10 Mar 2024, 9:14
Fissler Confidential: Elton Jantjies back in play, Pat Lam exit
The Lions could move to sign Elton Jantjies for a third time after WADA suspended the accreditation of the South African Doping Co…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
09 Mar 2024, 6:07
League star Regan Grace to make professional union bow
Former Super League star Regan Grace will make his union bow for Bath in a friendly against arch-West Country rivals Gloucester at…
Neil Fissler
08 Mar 2024, 9:45
All Black Sevu Reece winging his way to France?
All Blacks winger Sevu Reece is closing in on a move to French club Montpellier when his contract with the New Zealand Rugby Union…
Neil Fissler
08 Mar 2024, 7:44
Billy Vunipola close to deal with Montpellier
Vunipola, who won the last of his 75 England caps in the Rugby World Cup semi-final defeat at the hands of South Africa last Octob…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
08 Mar 2024, 6:59
Wales fly-half Gareth Anscombe signs for Gloucester
RugbyPass last week reported that Anscombe had been spotted getting a guided tour of Kingsholm after they were knocked back by Ire…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
05 Mar 2024, 7:03
Titi Lamositele is heading to Harlequins to replace Will Collier
The 29-year-old, who hails from Tacoma, won international caps for the United States before switching to Samoa in 2023.
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
05 Mar 2024, 6:44
10 England rugby players who defied convention
Manny Feyi-Waboso became the 1460th player to be capped by England when he came off the bench against Italy last month.
Neil Fissler
03 Mar 2024, 13:30
Fissler Confidential: Bath hunt All Black as Sarries lose another 10
The 28-year-old Gisborne-born Bridge, who scored 12 tries in 19 appearances for New Zealand, has had a meeting with Bath officials…
Neil Fissler
02 Mar 2024, 4:44
Gareth Anscombe visits Kingsholm as Gloucester hunt new fly-half
Adam Hastings confirmed his departure earlier this month after contract talks with the Cherry and Whites stalled at the last minut…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
29 Feb 2024, 10:08
Gloucester look to Christian Wade to fill Louis Rees-Zammit vacancy
Rees-Zammit is ironically on the NFL's International Player Pathway (IPP) since January, the same programme that the 32-year-old W…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
27 Feb 2024, 13:23
Huw Jones to travel to France this week to complete Top 14 switch
The 30-year-old Glasgow outside centre, who had a move to Bayonne scrapped three years ago after they were relegated to Pro D2, is…
Neil Fissler
27 Feb 2024, 6:36
Fissler Confidential: Burns to Munster agreed as Tigers hunt Wallaby
Leicester Tigers head coach Dan McKellar is looking to go shopping in his native Australia as he endeavours to strengthen his Welf…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
24 Feb 2024, 4:28
Richie Murphy has 7-game audition for Ulster top job
Richie Murphy has been told that he has got a seven-game audition to secure himself the Ulster job on a permanent basis after bein…
Neil Fissler
22 Feb 2024, 8:33
Courtney Lawes is due in France on Friday to seal his Pro D2 move
The soon-to-be 35-year-old retired from international rugby after winning his 105th England Test cap at the recent Rugby World Cup…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
20 Feb 2024, 7:59
Sale bring in Hyron Andrews on short-term deal from the Sharks
Andrews has this season played four games for the struggling South African franchise, who are bottom of the URC table with only on…
Neil Fissler
20 Feb 2024, 4:49
Sharks sign Nyakane and Esterhuizen in sensational double deal
The Sharks have pulled off a sensational double deal to take World Cup winners centre Andre Esterhuizen and prop Trevor Nyakane to…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
18 Feb 2024, 7:45
Fissler Confidential: Esterhuizen's return to SA, Exeter sweat on Slade
Andre Esterhuizen appears to be advancing towards a return to South Africa where the Sharks and Stormers have both expressed an in…
Neil Fissler
17 Feb 2024, 5:16
Adam Hastings to exit Gloucester and join Glasgow Warriors
Scotland international Adam Hastings has secured a return to North of the Border and is re-joining former club Glasgow Warriors wh…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
16 Feb 2024, 6:19
Ex-Ireland back Will Addison in talks about rejoining Sale Sharks
Ulster utility back and former Ireland international Will Addison is in talks about returning to Sale, his former Gallagher Premie…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
14 Feb 2024, 7:54
In-demand Newcastle youngster Guy Pepper will join Bath next season
Bath have won the race to land highly rated Newcastle Falcons openside Guy Pepper, who has turned down a lucrative three-year deal…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
13 Feb 2024, 12:46
Ex-Springboks winger Sbu Nkosi lines up one-year Currie Cup deal
Former Springboks winger Sbu Nkosi, who has been a free agent since leaving the Bulls last summer, is poised to make his comeback.
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
13 Feb 2024, 9:46
Ollie Lawrence on Harlequins' radar if Andre Esterhuizen heads home
Harlequins could look no further than England international Ollie Lawrence should they need to replace Springboks Rugby World Cup …
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
13 Feb 2024, 8:33
Benetton drop massive hint on incoming star spurned by England
Benetton dropped a major hint that Louis Lynagh is on his way to Italy to finalise his move from Harlequins that, RugbyPass exclus…
Neil Fissler
12 Feb 2024, 7:43
Fissler Confidential: Tuilagi a target as third club chase Lawes
The battle to sign former England captain Courtney Lawes appeared to be a straight shoot-out between Pro D2 promotion hopefuls Pro…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
10 Feb 2024, 2:40
Exit bound Louis Lynagh backed into a corner by Harlequins
Louis Lynagh is this weekend set to complete his move to Benetton after agreeing to sign on at the United Rugby Championship high-…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
08 Feb 2024, 9:30
Harlequins' Louis Lynagh poised to quit the Premiership for URC
The 23-year-old is set to follow in the footsteps of his father, Wallabies legend Michael, by joining Benetton, the Treviso franch…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
07 Feb 2024, 5:23
Rivals hope to pounce as Courtney Lawes to Brive deal not fully done
The 34-year-old Lawes, who won 105 Test caps with England, retired from international rugby after the recent Rugby World Cup in Fr…
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
06 Feb 2024, 9:09
Glasgow Warriors set to confirm Rory Sutherland signing
Glasgow Warriors are poised to announce that they have signed Scotland and Lions prop Rory Sutherland on a two-year when his short…
Neil Fissler
05 Feb 2024, 10:27
French club in bid to prise Danny Care from Harlequins
Bayonne are making a last-minute attempt to derail Harlequins bid to keep veteran England scrum-half Danny Care at the Twickenham …
Exclusive
Neil Fissler
05 Feb 2024, 6:58
Lewis Ludlam the first of a Toulon double-header
Toulon are poised to unveil the first leg of a double raid for two England internationals after Northampton Saints announced flank…
Neil Fissler
05 Feb 2024, 5:55
Borthwick: The most expensive mistake in rugby history
Appointing Steve Borthwick, England's coach, will become the most expensive mistake in rugby history because he isn’t up to the …
Opinion
Neil Fissler
27 Aug 2023, 10:48
