A new Gallagher PREM Rugby season brings another wave of high-profile arrivals, with clubs strengthening their squads through a mix of international stars, proven performers and exciting talent.
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From British and Irish Lions to Rugby World Cup winners, we have ranked the standout signings ahead of the campaign, assessing which players could make the biggest impact for their new clubs.
10 Dan du Preez to Bath
Bath have not been particularly active in the transfer market, but Dan du Preez looks an excellent addition and a strong replacement for Alfie Barbeary.
Injury restricted the back-rower to just 11 appearances for Sale Sharks last season, although his quality is unquestionable when fully fit. With eight Springbok caps to his name, he brings both ability and international experience.
Thomas du Toit’s departure also leaves a considerable gap in the squad’s experience, and Du Preez should help address that while giving Bath another powerful option in the back row.
9 Jean Kleyn to Gloucester
Gloucester have made several encouraging additions, with Jean Kleyn standing out as a player capable of bringing serious experience to their second row.
The 33-year-old, who stands at 6ft 8in, remains a proven performer at international level and featured for the Springboks as recently as last autumn.
A Rugby World Cup winner in 2023, he also has the unusual distinction of having represented Ireland before switching allegiance to South Africa.
After establishing himself as a Munster stalwart, Kleyn arrives at Kingsholm with a wealth of experience, significant physical presence and plenty of pedigree. The big question is how quickly he adapts to PREM Rugby.
8 Hoskins Sotutu to Newcastle Red Bulls
The arrival of Hoskins Sotutu was one of Newcastle’s first major statements following Red Bull’s investment, although the move has taken some time to finally come together.
Joining from the Blues, the England-eligible back row arrives with All Blacks experience but has struggled to force his way back into the international picture in recent years. A fresh start in the north-east could give him exactly the opportunity he needs.
Now at an age where he should be approaching his peak, Sotutu is an outstanding ball carrier and has the potential to add genuine quality to Newcastle’s forward pack.
7 Joe Marchant to Sale Sharks
Joe Marchant’s return to PREM Rugby looks like one of the smartest pieces of business ahead of the new season.
The England international returns to the domestic game following his spell in France, bringing with him considerably more experience than when he left Harlequins.
Capable of playing at centre or on the wing, Marchant offers pace, defensive quality and versatility across the backline. He has also already proven himself at Test level, having been a regular for England during their run to the 2023 Rugby World Cup semi-finals.
For Sale, this feels like a signing with very little downside. Marchant already knows the league, is still in his prime and should immediately strengthen Alex Sanderson’s backline.
If he can rediscover his best form following his return to England, he could prove to be one of the standout signings of the PREM season.
6 Aaron Wainwright to Leicester Tigers
Leicester Tigers have undergone something of a rebuild following several significant departures, making Aaron Wainwright a particularly smart piece of recruitment.
The 28-year-old joins from the Dragons with a reputation for explosive carrying, relentless work rate and defensive aggression. He has consistently been one of the more underrated performers in Welsh rugby and possesses the all-action style that should suit the Tigers.
Wainwright gives Leicester greater depth and quality in the back row and, on paper at least, makes their squad considerably stronger.