As the 2018/19 season has drawn to a close, all eyes begin to look towards the Rugby World Cup and beyond. A lot of business has gone on for Premiership clubs over the past few months with some big signings incoming.
Premiership signings
David Challis focuses on those coming into the Premiership from overseas. Expect more signings to follow over the coming months but all of these men have been confirmed to play in the Premiership next year.
Stuart Hogg – Glasgow to Exeter Chiefs
The flying Glaswegian is arguably the biggest star on this list and could be the key to Exeter taking their domestic success into Europe. However the Devon based side will have to do without their new star until after the World Cup concludes. Although this is a huge signing for Exeter, Hogg’s delayed start with the side could have an impact on their season.
Martin Landajo – Jaguares to Harlequins
Harlequins have long suffered a lack of depth at scrum half. However with the signing of the Argentine international that appears to be in the past. Now they will have genuine competition to Danny Care but once again Paul Gustard will have to do without his new addition until after the World Cup.
Thomas Lavanini – Jaguares to Leicester Tigers
Another Argentine heading to the Premiership, Lavanini should bring some grunt to the struggling Tigers pack. Once again Lavanini is expected to go to the World Cup. However when he does arrive he could prove crucial to a Leicester resurgence in 2020.
Sekope Kepu – Waratahs to London Irish
London Irish have gone big for their return to the Premiership. Kepu should provide control in the set piece and power in the loose. A strong front row is key to survival and Kepu could be integral to London Irish’s aims next season.
Paddy Jackson – Perpignan to London Irish
Jackson’s signing has proved controversial and it remains to be seen if his arrival will cause more harm than good. However with no chance of going to the World Cup the fly-half could be the key to keeping London Irish in the Premiership.
Sean O’Brien – Leinster to London Irish
There is no doubting O’Brien’s quality over the past decade. However the question is his durability. If London Irish can keep him fit then he could be a sensation signing. However if he picks up injuries then they may look back on the signing as a mistake.
Waisake Naholo – Highlanders to London Irish
Rounding out the London Irish quartet is the flying winger from New Zealand. Naholo has a game breaking ability but it remains to be seen if he will be part of the Kiwi’s World Cup plans. Naholo is dangerous so should provide a different option to the newly promoted side.
Lood De Jager – Bulls to Sale Sharks
Sale have bolstered their forward ranks with a host of South African imports. De Jager is probably the pick of the bunch and should really improve their front line options. If he can get that Sale pack going forward they could be a real danger this upcoming season.
Malakai Fekitoa – Toulon to Wasps
When Elliot Daly left for Saracens he left a big void in the centres at Wasps. However Fekitoa looks set to do a big job at filling that hole. He is a different type of player but is every bit as talented. Fekitoa will need to settle in fast to make an impact but Wasps will have him available all season unlike some of the others on this list.
Melani Nanai – Blues to Worcester Warriors
Nanai is one of the lesser known players on this list but that should not mean he is overlooked. Nanai has been tearing it up in Super Rugby for the last few years and now looks to set to bring his talents to England. If Worcester can get him some quality ball then he is going to be seriously dangerous.
This list is by no means exhaustive and there are expected to be more premiership signings over the coming months. Who do you think is going to have the biggest impact this season out of those coming into the Premiership
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