Ardie Savea: Star forward to leave club at end of month with new club revealed

The former All Blacks captain has been in impressive form for Kobelco Kobe Steelers in Rugby League One, scoring six tries in 15 appearances during his time overseas. His performances have only strengthened his reputation as one of the world’s leading back-row forwards ahead of a return to Super Rugby.

However, uncertainty surrounds where Savea will land next. With Moana Pasifika’s long-term future still unclear, the 31-year-old could find himself without a club, accelerating interest from rival franchises.

His former side, the Hurricanes, are understood to be keen on bringing him back to Wellington, where he previously made more than 120 appearances and established himself as a fan favourite. A homecoming would be a natural fit.

But the Blues are also firmly in the mix and are believed to be monitoring the situation closely as they weigh up a potential move of their own.

With multiple suitors circling and no deal yet confirmed, Savea’s next destination remains up in the air — though an announcement is expected sooner rather than later.

Manu Tuilagi (Samoa)
Tuilagi remains one of the headline names. The England centre will become eligible in 2027 after completing the required stand-down period and has not ruled out representing his country of birth.

David Ribbans (South Africa)
The England lock qualifies for the Springboks through birth and could be an option as early as 2025 if he chooses to switch.

Billy Vunipola (Australia or Tonga)
A long-time England No.8, Vunipola has eligibility through both his birthplace (Australia) and Tongan heritage, offering multiple potential pathways.

Mako Vunipola (New Zealand or Tonga)
The experienced prop was born in New Zealand and is also eligible for Tonga, making him another intriguing candidate.

Hoskins Sotutu (England)
The Blues back-rower qualifies for England through family and has been linked with a potential switch despite All Blacks involvement.

Nepo Laulala (Samoa)
The 50-cap All Black tighthead becomes eligible in late 2026. Born in Samoa, he would add significant experience and power to their pack.

Shannon Frizell (Tonga)
A destructive loose forward, Frizell qualifies for Tonga and could be a major addition ahead of the tournament.

Akira Ioane (Samoa)
Still in his prime, Ioane has long been linked with Samoa and could be one of the most impactful potential switches.

Folau Fakatava (Tonga)
The exciting scrum-half is eligible for Tonga and could take on a leading role internationally if he opts to switch.

Ngani Laumape (Tonga)
Laumape has already expressed interest in representing Tonga and has been eligible since 2024.

Julian Savea (Samoa)
The All Blacks great is already eligible for Samoa and could still offer experience and finishing power.

Tyrone Green (England)
The South African-born back is on track to qualify for England through residency in 2026.

Lalakai Foketi (New Zealand)
The Australia international qualifies for New Zealand and could make a switch if opportunities arise.

Benhard Janse van Rensburg (England)
Another South African-born player impressing in England, he is eligible through residency and pushing for higher honours.

Dan Kelly (Ireland)
Already qualified via grandparents, Kelly could complete a switch from England to Ireland after his move to Munster.

Rhyno Smith (Italy)
The South African-born back has been linked with Italy, although his switch may depend on approval conditions.

Alex Lozowski (Italy)
The ex-England back qualifies for Italy through ancestry and could make an immediate impact if selected.