According to RugbyPass, Newcastle Red Bulls are set to confirm the signing of Christian Wade early next week, as Steve Diamond’s ambitious recruitment drive in the North East gathers even more momentum.

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Wade, who has recently been plying his trade with Wigan Warriors in rugby league — scoring two tries in just two appearances — hasn’t featured since July. Sources close to the deal suggest everything is now in place for his long-awaited return to Premiership Rugby.

The electric winger needs no introduction. Wade burst onto the scene with Wasps, dazzling defences with his raw pace and finishing ability, before stints at Racing 92 in France and Gloucester further cemented his reputation as one of the game’s deadliest wide men.

He even switched codes to the NFL with the Buffalo Bills, showcasing his athleticism on a global stage.

A one-cap England international, Wade is already the second-highest try-scorer in Premiership history, sitting just nine behind Chris Ashton’s all-time record. If he can rediscover his old scoring form in a Red Bulls shirt, that milestone could soon be his.

This move comes at a pivotal time for Newcastle. The club, formerly known as the Falcons, was recently taken over in a landmark deal by Red Bull — rebranded as the Newcastle Red Bulls in August 2025.

The global sporting powerhouse has already assumed responsibility for around £39 million in legacy debt, including £14.5m in COVID-era government loans, providing a much-needed financial rescue.

Far from just stabilising the club, Red Bull has set out bold ambitions:

European qualification within five years

Major trophies within the next decade

Investment in Kingston Park facilities, new indoor training centres, and world-class fan experiences

The takeover has sparked huge excitement in the region. Within 24 hours of the announcement, the Red Bulls recorded their highest-ever daily season ticket sales, proof of the renewed buzz around rugby in the North East.

Adding a marquee name like Wade to their roster underlines Red Bull’s intent: Newcastle are no longer content to simply survive in the Premiership. They want to compete, entertain, and win — and Wade could be the headline act of this new era.

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