Newcastle Red Bulls eye former Lions captain as marquee signing

The energy drink giant is expected to seal the deal in the coming days, adding the struggling Premiership outfit to a star-studded global sporting empire that includes F1’s Red Bull Racing, Bundesliga side RB Leipzig and MLS franchise New York Red Bulls.

The Falcons, who have languished at the bottom of the Gallagher Premiership for the past three seasons, are poised for a major transformation both on and off the field.

Sources close to the deal have hailed Red Bull as a “dream investor”, citing their proven success in elite performance, athlete development and youth pathways – all areas Newcastle have long lacked in recent years.

Confirmation is expected as early as next week, signalling the start of what could be a game-changing chapter for rugby union in the region.

With fresh cash and bold ambitions, here are five blockbuster names that Red Bull could target to launch their rugby revolution:

One of Wales’ most explosive players over the past decade, Liam Williams is a British & Irish Lion, a Grand Slam winner, and a former Champions Cup finalist with Saracens.

Now a free agent after his latest spell in Japan, the 33-year-old brings elite experience, attacking flair, and a fierce competitive edge. A big-money move back to the Premiership could be tempting—and he’s exactly the kind of box-office name the Falcons need to lift their profile.

A slick, fast-footed centre with 21 England caps, Marchant is currently playing for Stade Français in the Top 14. A graduate of the Harlequins system and part of their 2021 Premiership-winning side, he's proven at both domestic and international level.

His off-field ties to the North East—he’s engaged to Alan Shearer’s daughter, Hollie—make him a romantic and realistic target for the Falcons.

Best known for his iconic drop goal that clinched the 2022 Premiership title for Leicester Tigers, Burns is a charismatic and experienced playmaker with over 200 Premiership appearances.

A former England international, he’s also played in Japan and New Zealand, bringing a rare global perspective to the game. Comfortable at fly-half or full-back, Burns could add leadership, versatility, and big-game temperament to a developing Falcons squad.

One of the most decorated scrum-halves in modern rugby, Conor Murray is now available after bidding farewell to Munster following 15 glittering seasons.

A three-time British & Irish Lion, World Cup semi-finalist, and Grand Slam winner with Ireland, Murray boasts over 100 Test caps and a reputation for cool-headed control under pressure.

He was a key figure in Ireland’s rise to world number one and brings a level of tactical intelligence and experience rarely seen in the Premiership.

At 36, he may be entering the twilight of his career—but as a short-term general to guide Newcastle’s rebuild, he’d be priceless. Murray’s leadership, elite pedigree, and pinpoint kicking game could make him the perfect on-field general for the Red Bull era.

Already a Red Bull athlete and one of the most recognisable faces in rugby, Jack Nowell brings a rare blend of elite performance and commercial appeal—a marketing dream. A British & Irish Lion, England international, and long-time standout at Exeter Chiefs, Jack has built a global following through both his dynamic style of play and distinctive personality off the pitch.

On the field, he remains a genuine threat, with his experience and versatility adding real value. Off it, his strong brand partnerships and media presence make him a major asset for fan engagement and sponsorship.

One potential consideration is that Jack experienced issues playing on artificial surfaces during the latter stages of his time at Exeter. With the Falcons playing on a synthetic pitch, this may need to be factored into any long-term plans.