To be clear from the start, the big transfer action is set to take place next summer following the rise in the salary cap, with a number of big names on the cusp of their contracts expiring. So the 2024-25 moves hint at tactical steps to get us there.
The bulk of this year’s moves fall into the same categories; unproven youngsters or gambles, veterans in their early 30s who (hopefully) still have plenty left in the tank, or capable back-ups. Not many “wow” signings.
A few honorary mentions before the top 10. It is hard to think of a more Steve Diamond signing for Newcastle than Cameron Neild, a tough back-row who played under Diamond at Sale and Worcester. Neild is sadly out for three months with a broken arm, but in the meantime will be helping Diamond coach the defence.
Phil Brantingham has lots of potential, the young loosehead joining Saracens from Newcastle, while Will Goodrick-Clarke showed promise at London Irish and is a smart pick-up by Exeter after a year with Ealing.
Sale signing 6ft 8in Le Roux Roets is a nice throwback to their Afrikaans peak from a few years ago, while it is too early yet for a verdict on Saracens two young signings at fly-half, Fergus Burke and Louie Johnson.
Leigh Halfpenny may end up winning a few games for Harlequins off the kicking tee, but he is 35 and coming off a disrupted spell with injury at the Crusaders. Rodrigo Isgro, the Argentina sevens star also heading to the Stoop, is an intriguing prospect who will need time.
10: Izaia Perese
Leicester Tigers from Waratahs
Last featured for the Wallabies against Portugal at the Rugby World Cup. The former rugby league player will churn out post-contact metres, has a good fend and can make ground on the outside. Plays bigger than he looks at 5ft 8in and 14 stone. Reunited with Michael Cheika, the former Australia coach.
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