Rugby transfer round-up: Henry Pollock, Scott Robertson, Ellis Genge

From confirmed signings and departures to intriguing rumours that could shape the next stage of players’ careers, we take a look at some of the biggest transfer developments currently making headlines.

Northampton Saints have reportedly been warned that they will need to make Henry Pollock one of the highest-paid players in English rugby if they are to retain the services of the England star.

According to The Telegraph, Pollock’s current contract runs until the end of the 2026/27 season, with the 21-year-old currently believed to earn around £150,000 per year. However, following his rapid rise both on and off the field, the flanker is now expected to be in line for a significant pay increase.

Pollock has quickly established himself as one of rugby’s most recognisable figures after breaking into the England set-up and signing with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom agency, which has helped to significantly boost his commercial profile.

Hearn believes Northampton now need to recognise the value Pollock brings to the club beyond what he produces on the pitch.

“Northampton have to recognise what they have got,” Hearn said.

“It is all very well saying that there might be players who are a bit more consistent or might be better or whatever, but there aren’t players that are making an unquestionable and undeniable difference to the bottom line of the club.

“Henry Pollock drives season ticket sales. Henry Pollock puts bums on the seats. Henry Pollock drives viewership on TNT or wherever it’s going to be. Henry Pollock sells shirts.

“That’s the difference. So you can actually put an economic value over having Henry Pollock on the team, and that has to be recognised, regardless of the want from Henry. He cannot stay at this club on the money that he’s on.”

Thomas Ramos will leave Toulouse at the end of the 2026/27 season after agreeing a move to Racing 92.

The France international will remain with Toulouse throughout the upcoming campaign before ending his lengthy association with the club and beginning a new chapter in Paris.

Ramos has been a key figure for the French side in recent years. However, following the 2027 Rugby World Cup, the 31-year-old will make the move to Racing 92.

Former All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson has reportedly been offered a four-year contract to make a surprise switch to rugby league.

The 51-year-old has been without a permanent coaching position since departing the New Zealand set-up in January 2026, but could now be set for a return to coaching in the NRL.

According to the New Zealand Herald, the Southern Orcas have formally offered Robertson the opportunity to become their inaugural head coach if their bid to become the NRL’s 20th franchise is successful.

The proposed expansion team would be based in Christchurch, with club president Sir Graham Lowe confirming that the decision now rests with Robertson.

England and Bristol Bears prop Ellis Genge has reportedly been presented with an opportunity to secure a lucrative move overseas, although doing so could have implications for his international career.

According to RugbyPass’ Fissler Confidential column, Genge is being targeted for a big-money move to either France’s Top 14 or Japan Rugby League One after the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

Several wealthy clubs are reportedly keeping tabs on the 80-cap England international, who agreed a long-term contract with Bristol Bears in 2024.

Genge will be 32 when the 2027 World Cup concludes, potentially putting him in a strong position to land one final major contract. Clubs in France and Japan can offer salaries significantly higher than those available in the Gallagher Prem.

Louis Bielle-Biarrey has turned down Bordeaux’s opening contract proposal despite being keen to remain with the club.

Midi Olympique reports that negotiations have hit a stumbling block over image rights and the possibility of the winger representing France at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. That situation could give rival clubs an opportunity to enter the race for his signature.

The Bordeaux-Bègles star is keen to experience sevens rugby and is determined to find a way to make his Olympic ambitions a reality.

His current contract expires at the end of next season, meaning talks over an extension remain ongoing. The prospect of Olympic involvement has reportedly become an important factor during those negotiations.

There is little question about the impact Bielle-Biarrey could have in the sevens format. The prolific winger has scored 34 tries in 30 appearances this season, including nine during the Six Nations.

Mike Catt has been named as Fijian Drua’s Senior Assistant Coach ahead of the 2027 Super Rugby Pacific season.

The 2003 Rugby World Cup winner will work alongside new head coach Brad Mooar as the Drua continue to build their coaching staff ahead of the new campaign.

Catt brings considerable experience to the role, having won 75 England caps and represented his country at four Rugby World Cups during an illustrious playing career.

Tokyo Sungoliath have confirmed that Ireland wing James Lowe will join the club ahead of the new season, months after his departure from Leinster was announced.

The experienced winger attracted interest from several clubs, although a move to Japan increasingly appeared to be the most likely destination.

Lowe will now join Sungoliath as the replacement for Springbok star Cheslin Kolbe.

The Scarlets have announced the signing of Wales international fly-half Gareth Anscombe ahead of the 2026/27 season.

Anscombe arrives in West Wales with a wealth of experience at both club and international level, bringing strong tactical awareness, leadership and an extensive understanding of the game.

The 42-cap Wales international was part of the side that won the 2019 Six Nations Grand Slam and, despite being born in New Zealand, has established himself as one of the country's most experienced playmakers.

Anscombe joins the Scarlets after spending last season in France with Top 14 side Aviron Bayonnais.

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