Five marquee signings Red Bull could make following Newcastle takeover
Rugby NewsFriday, 16 May 2025 at 08:52
Cash-strapped Newcastle Falcons could soon be soaring to new heights—with energy drink powerhouse Red Bullclosing in on a sensational takeover that could be finalised as early as July.
Competition: Get a Chance to Watch the Lions in Australia
According to a RugbyPass exclusive, the Austrian-owned global brand—already a major player in F1 and football—is now eyeing a bold move into the rugby world, with the Falcons firmly in their sights.
The North East club, currently propped up by owner Semore Kurdi, was put up for sale over a year ago. Since then, talks with Premiership Rugby and CVC Capital Partners over a major bailout have rumbled on without a breakthrough.
But now, it seems the cavalry has arrived. Sources suggest that discussions with Red Bull are in the fast lane, with both parties hoping to get the deal done within weeks. If all goes to plan, the deal would secure the club’s long-term future and could trigger a dramatic transformation at Kingston Park.
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From Tuigamala to Takeover: Could history repeat itself?
Back in 1995, Sir John Hall transformed the then Newcastle Gosforth into a rugby superpower—luring All Blacks legend Inga Tuigamala to the North East in a then-world-record £1million deal.
Now, history could be about to repeat itself, but on an even bigger scale.
RUCK understands the club’s new backers are already plotting a marquee signing to kick-start a new era. And there are some huge names being thrown around…
The Dream Team? 5 Stars Red Bull Could Bring to Newcastle
With fresh cash and bold ambitions, here are five blockbuster names that Red Bull could target to launch their rugby revolution:
? #1. Liam Williams
The fiery Welsh fullback is currently a free agent after leaving Saracens and could be tempted by a big-money return to the Premiership. Flair, experience, and a box-office name—exactly what the Falcons need.
? #2. Chris Harris
The former Falcon returning home? Don’t rule it out. Defence like a brick wall, British & Irish Lion pedigree, and a cult hero in the Toon.
? #3. Taulupe Faletau
One of the greatest No.8s of his generation. Injury-hit, yes, but a fully fit Faletau would be a monstrous addition to any back row.
? #4. George Ford
The ultimate game manager. If Newcastle really want to send shockwaves through the league, snapping up Ford would do it. Could Red Bull money prise him away from Sale?
? #5. Jack Nowell
Already a Red Bull athlete, and one of rugby’s most recognisable faces. A match made in marketing heaven—and still a serious threat on the pitch.
Nine England players named on 36-man British & Irish Lions standby list
While the squad boasts a strong core of established Test stars and a few exciting bolters, injuries are inevitable in a gruelling tour. That makes the standby list more than just a formality; it’s effectively a shadow squad of contenders who could be one call away from boarding the plane.
Here’s a breakdown of the English players who are still in contention according to Planet Rugby — and the reasons why they might be Farrell’s first port of call if disaster strikes.
George Furbank – The Utility Back
With Marcus Smith and Blair Kinghorn offering full-back and fly-half flexibility, George Furbank’s own multi-positional value may count against him. But if a versatile playmaker is needed mid-tour, the Northampton man has the tools and temperament to slot in seamlessly. Farrell knows the value of adaptability — and Furbank fits that bill.
Owen Farrell – The Elephant in the Room
He may be Andy Farrell’s son, but Owen Farrell’s omission from the squad has been one of the biggest talking points. The Racing 92 playmaker hasn’t hit top gear since returning from injury, but his experience, leadership, and tactical mastery make him an obvious next-in-line if the Lions require a steadying influence at 10 or 12.
George Ford – The Nearly Man
One of the most talented players never to feature for the Lions, Ford was once again overlooked despite a strong season for Sale. But with his game management, elite kicking and international pedigree, he remains firmly in the frame should injury or form issues strike the fly-half group.
Alex Mitchell – Already on the Plane, but Who’s Next?
Mitchell is already part of the squad, but if he goes down, there’s a cluster of English No.9s waiting in the wings. The likes of Ben Spencer, Danny Care, or Harry Randall could come into the frame — though they appear further down the pecking order than Scotland’s Ben White or Ireland’s Craig Casey.
Tom Willis – The Powerful Option
Jack Willis is already in the squad, but his brother Tom has been outstanding for Saracens and Bordeaux. A wrecking-ball ball carrier and tireless defender, he offers something different in the No.8 jersey. With injury clouds hanging over Jack Conan and Caelan Doris, Tom Willis may get the call if another powerhouse is needed.
Ben Curry – Mr. Dependable
While twin brother Tom is already part of the squad, Ben Curry could easily step in if another openside is needed. Though less flashy than some of his rivals, his consistency, breakdown work, and defensive organisation make him a tempting option for Farrell’s coaching staff.
Courtney Lawes – The Veteran Wildcard
Yes, he’s now plying his trade in France’s second tier with Brive, but Lawes’ Lions experience and Test-hardened versatility across lock and blindside flank make him a player the selectors may not be able to ignore if things go awry in the back five.
Fin Baxter – The Future Loosehead
The Harlequins youngster has impressed this season and was unlucky to miss out. If there’s an injury at loosehead, don’t be shocked if Baxter is drafted in as a fresh, dynamic option with big potential.
Jamie George – The Hooker-in-Waiting
Perhaps the most surprising omission from the original squad, Saracens’ stalwart Jamie George remains a prime candidate to join the tour at any moment. A leader, set-piece general and veteran of the 2017 and 2021 tours, George would be an easy plug-and-play replacement.
David Ribbans – The Forgotten Lock
Now excelling at Toulon, Ribbans has flown under the radar due to his move to France, but his Top 14 form speaks volumes. With high work rate and strong set-piece credentials, he’d be a solid addition if the Lions lose a second-rower mid-tour.
Full British & Irish Lions Standby List
Outside backs
- Darcy Graham (Scotland)
- Blair Murray (Wales)
- George Furbank (England)
- Jimmy O’Brien (Ireland)
- Josh Adams (Wales)
Centres
- Robbie Henshaw (Ireland)
- Jamie Osborne (Ireland)
- Tom Jordan (Scotland)
Fly-halves
- Owen Farrell (England)
- George Ford (England)
- Jack Crowley (Ireland)
- Sam Prendergast (Ireland)
Scrum-halves
- Ben White (Scotland)
- George Horne (Scotland)
- Craig Casey (Ireland)
- (Multiple English scrum-halves under consideration)
Loose forwards
- Taulupe Faletau (Wales)
- Tom Willis (England)
- Matt Fagerson (Scotland)
- Jack Dempsey (Scotland)
- Jack Willis (England) (if ruled out, likely replaced)
- Ben Curry (England)
- Rory Darge (Scotland)
- Tommy Reffell (Wales)
- Jamie Ritchie (Scotland)
- Courtney Lawes (England)
Locks
- Dafydd Jenkins (Wales)
- Adam Beard (Wales)
- Will Rowlands (Wales)
- David Ribbans (England)
Front-row
- Finlay Bealham (Ireland)
- Kyle Sinckler (England)
- Fin Baxter (England)
- Nicky Smith (Wales)
- Jamie George (England)
- Dewi Lake (Wales)
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