"Savea available" - The 10 Best Rugby Free Agents Available Right Now
Rugby NewsThursday, 28 May 2026 at 20:21
The 2026 rugby transfer market has produced an unusually strong crop of experienced internationals, marquee stars and proven Test performers suddenly available after leaving their clubs.
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From world-class back-rowers and explosive backs to veteran locks and elite playmakers, clubs across the Premiership, Top 14, URC and Japan Rugby League One are watching closely as several major names weigh up their next move.
Some are still capable of transforming title contenders immediately, while others offer invaluable leadership, depth and experience for ambitious squads chasing silverware.
Here are the biggest rugby free agents currently available in 2026.
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Ardie Savea (Back Row)
Most recent clubs: Moana Pasifika / Kobelco Kobe Steelers
Current status: Available for future negotiations
Current status: Available for future negotiations
One of the greatest back-rowers of his generation, Savea remains the headline name on the market. The All Blacks star spent the season in Japan with Kobe Steelers while remaining connected to Moana Pasifika, but uncertainty around future commitments has left the door open for major offers.
Even in his 30s, Savea remains an elite ball carrier, breakdown threat and leader capable of transforming any squad instantly.
Potential destinations
- New Zealand Super Rugby return
- Japan Rugby League One
- French Top 14 marquee signing
Theo McFarland (Lock / Blindside)
Last club: Saracens
Current status: Uncertain future after Saracens exit discussions
Current status: Uncertain future after Saracens exit discussions
McFarland remains one of the most unique forwards in world rugby. The Samoan international combines exceptional lineout athleticism with the mobility of a loose forward, making him one of the most valuable hybrid forwards available.
At his best, he offers world-class aerial ability and carries like an extra back-rower in open play.
Potential destinations
- Top 14
- Japan Rugby League One
- URC contenders
Grant Williams (Scrum-half)
Last club: Sharks
Current status: Leaving South Africa
Current status: Leaving South Africa
Williams became one of the hottest names on the market after confirmation he would leave the Sharks. The Springbok scrum-half is regarded as one of the quickest players in world rugby and thrives in high-tempo attacking systems.
While Japanese clubs have shown strong interest, his pace and attacking threat make him attractive to almost every major league.
Strengths
- Elite acceleration
- Counter-attack threat
- High attacking tempo
James O'Connor (Fly-half / Utility Back)
Last club: Leicester Tigers
Previous club: Crusaders
Current status: Free agent
Previous club: Crusaders
Current status: Free agent
Leicester confirmed O’Connor’s departure after a short spell in the Premiership. Despite entering the veteran stage of his career, the Wallabies playmaker still offers elite game management, tactical kicking and versatility across the backline.
His experience across Super Rugby, Premiership Rugby and Test rugby makes him an attractive short-term option for contenders needing leadership and composure.
Potential destinations
- Japan
- South Africa
- Australia return
Jack Dempsey (Number 8 / Flanker)
Last club: Glasgow Warriors
Current status: Available
Current status: Available
Dempsey’s aggressive carrying style and relentless work-rate have made him one of the most sought-after loose forwards available this year.
The Scotland international starred for Glasgow and remains in demand thanks to his ability to dominate gain-lines and contribute heavily defensively.
Potential destinations
- France
- Japan
- Premiership Rugby
Izaia Perese (Centre)
Last club: Leicester Tigers
Current status: Free agent
Current status: Free agent
Perese remains one of the most dangerous midfield runners available despite an injury-hit campaign in England.
The Wallabies centre possesses explosive acceleration, footwork and power capable of breaking open defensive systems.
Strengths
- Gain-line dominance
- Ball carrying
- Defensive aggression
Richie Gray (Lock)
Last club: Toyota Verblitz
Previous club: Glasgow Warriors
Current status: Free agent after Japan stint expired
Previous club: Glasgow Warriors
Current status: Free agent after Japan stint expired
After leaving Glasgow Warriors in 2024, Gray spent the 2025–26 season in Japan with Toyota Verblitz. His contract has now expired, putting the vastly experienced Scotland and British & Irish Lions lock back on the market.
Even at 36, Gray remains highly valued because of his set-piece expertise and leadership qualities.
Strengths
- Elite lineout calling
- Massive Test experience
- Leadership and mentoring
- Set-piece reliability
Potential destinations
- Top 14
- URC
- Japan return
- Premiership short-term deal
Hamish Watson (Openside Flanker)
Last club: Edinburgh Rugby
Current status: Veteran free agent
Current status: Veteran free agent
Injuries have slowed Watson in recent seasons, but the former Lions flanker still offers world-class breakdown instincts and defensive intensity.
For clubs needing experienced forward depth and leadership, Watson remains an attractive short-term acquisition.
Malakai Fekitoa (Centre)
Last club: Benetton Rugby
Current status: Available
Current status: Available
Fekitoa’s experience across international rugby, the Premiership, Top 14 and URC keeps him relevant on the market despite entering the later stages of his career.
His physicality and defensive leadership still make him a valuable midfield option.
Potential destinations
- Japan
- France
- Major League Rugby
Eduardo Bello (Tighthead Prop)
Last club: Newcastle Falcons
Current status: Available
Current status: Available
Experienced tighthead props are always in demand, and Bello’s scrummaging pedigree with Argentina gives him strong market value.
Reliable set-piece operators remain one of rugby’s hardest positions to recruit, meaning Bello could still secure a significant move despite Newcastle’s struggles.
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