A Wallabies ace will return to Australia following the end of his time in Europe, and Newcastle Red Bulls have released a Test man from his impending switch to England.
Here are all the latest rugby rumours, transfers and contract renewals.
Wallabies man returns home following PREM exit
Australian centre Izaia Perese will return down under next season, signing a deal with Rugby Australia (RA) and the Queensland Reds through to 2028.
His switch back comes following his exit from PREM Rugby outfit Leicester Tigers, and follows the likes of Len Ikitau and James Ramm from the English top flight to Australia next season.
Perese’s return to the Reds, where he made 19 appearances between 2017 and 2018 before a brief stint in the NRL, also comes with a view to making it into the Wallabies squad for the 2027 Rugby World Cup. He won the last of his six Test caps in the 2023 World Cup, starting in their win over Portugal.
Commenting on his move, Perese said: “I thought my journey was overseas and that was going to be me for the rest of my career. In Australia, in Queensland, is where I want to be, and excited is an understatement.
“It’s an exciting time for rugby in Australia as a whole. The Rugby World Cup next year is obviously a goal, but what comes first is playing good rugby here at the Reds.
“Playing for your country is the pinnacle. All I can do to get back there is solely going to come from doing my job to the best of my ability for Queensland.”
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RA director of high performance, Peter Horne, added: “We are pleased to welcome Izaia back to Australian Rugby at a pivotal time for the game.
“He is a powerful athlete who is experienced and motivated to contribute to Queensland and the wider Australian system.
“His signing reflects our focus on strengthening our depth and ensuring our best athletes are playing their rugby here in Australia.”
Also commenting, Reds general manager of high performance, Sam Cordingley, said: “It’s great to welcome Izzy back to the Reds.
“He brings a wealth of experience from his time in the French Top 14 and English Premiership, so he’ll be a great addition to our squad over the next few years.”
Newcastle Red Bulls release Fijian recruit
PREM outfit Newcastle Red Bulls have released Fijian international Joji Nasova from his contract next season, citing personal reasons.
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The Olympic silver medalist had agreed terms with the North East outfit to join them for the upcoming campaign, but will now remain with Super Rugby Pacific side Fijian Drua instead.
Commenting, Newcastle general manager of rugby, Neil McIlroy, said: “While we were very much looking forward to welcoming Joji to Newcastle Red Bulls, we fully understand and respect the unique personal circumstances that have led to this decision.
“Contractual certainty is vital for clubs, players and the wider game. But at the same time, rugby is built on people, families and communities, and we believe our responsibility as an employer extends beyond the field.
“We wish Joji, his family and the Fijian Drua every success for the future.”