part of the Red Bull family – and he’s one of the most recognisable players in world rugby. On-field threat + off-field branding = marketing dream.

The 29-year-old flanker, who is set to join Sale Sharks this summer, has been a key figure at Sandy Park since joining from South Africa’s Sharks six years ago, playing a vital role in Exeter’s historic Premiership and Champions Cup double in 2020.

Vermeulen now qualifies under World Rugby’s five-year residency rule and is currently in the process of gaining British citizenship. But despite appearing to tick every box, an old technicality is keeping the door to international honours slammed shut.

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Back in 2015, Vermeulen represented South Africa at the World Rugby U20 Championship—a decision that’s come back to bite.

At the time, the Junior Boks were designated as South Africa’s official second team, meaning his single appearance locked him into Springbok eligibility for life.

Current rules only allow a player to switch nations if they were born in that country or have a parent or grandparent who was. Vermeulen, unfortunately, meets neither of those criteria.

Speaking to 

BBC Radio Devon, Vermeulen didn’t hold back his disappointment.

And it’s not just about his own case—Vermeulen is baffled by the inconsistencies he sees elsewhere.

"I don't think they can still keep you underneath that because if you go - look how many guys are playing for Scotland that were playing for Junior Boks, guys like Duhan van der Merwe, Pierre Schoeman, like there's so many guys.

"I get really angry about it because I'm like, how can you stop a guy after they played 10 years ago for a country."

Let’s dive into the names being discussed behind the scenes – starting with one of rugby’s true giants.

Status: Free agent
CV: 100+ Ireland caps, 3x Lions, Grand Slam winner
Why it fits: You want experience? Leadership? Big-game IQ? Conor Murray has it all. He’s just wrapped up 15 iconic years with Munster and is actively weighing up his next move.

Racing 92 are circling, but Red Bull are believed to be pushing hard behind the scenes to hijack the move and bring him to the Premiership.

At 36, he’s not a long-term project – but as a tactical general to guide Newcastle’s rebuild, he’d be worth every penny. A true elite organiser with box-kicking precision and icy composure.

Status: Free agent
CV: Lions, Wales Grand Slam hero
Why it fits: He’s explosive, fearless, and brings real edge. At 33, he’s still electric – and ready for one more high-profile challenge. A perfect face for the Red Bull revolution.

Status: Available
CV: England No.8, Top 14 champ
Why it fits: Still just 27 and out of contract after leaving Gloucester. He’s physical, smart, and a born leader. Toulon are sniffing – but Red Bull could beat them to it.

Status: In the Top 14
CV: 21 England caps, Premiership title with Quins
Why it fits: A slick centre with pace and pedigree. Bonus? He’s engaged to Alan Shearer’s daughter, Hollie – a link that might just tip the scales.

Status: Free
CV: Prem winner, 200+ appearances
Why it fits: Game-changer, joker, leader. Freddie brings that clutch gene – and would be a steady hand in a new-look backline. Big-game player with serious charisma.

Status: Red Bull athlete
CV: England, Lions, Exeter legend
Why it fits: He’s already

Caveat: his past issues on synthetic pitches could be a factor. But if there's a way around that, he’s a no-brainer.