Transfers 2014/2015 Continued

First topic message reminder :

Well silly season is almost upon us so thought I would keep tabs on the comings and goings.  Will put the confirmed transfers, unconfirmed transfers (rumours) and out of contract players into various columns.  Please post any news or rumours and I will keep the original post updated.

Confirmed
Jon Davies (Scarlets) to Clermont
Regan King (Clermont) to Scarlets
Ian Evans (Ospreys) to Toulon
John Afoa (Ulster) to Gloucester
Rory Kockott (Castres) to Toulon (reportedly trying to cancel deal to stay at Castres)
Richard Hibbard (Ospreys) to Gloucester
Mamuka Gorgodze (Montpellier) to Toulon
Sebastien Vahaamahina (Perpignan) to Clermont
Guilhem Guirado (Perpignan) to Toulon
Robin Copeland (Blues) to Munster
Armitev (Northampton) to Russia (unconfirmed club)
Qera (Gloucester) to Toulouse
Casey Laulala (Munster to France (Club unconfirmed but thought to be Racing Metro)
Tom Court (Ulster) to London Irish
Andre Pretorius (Blues) to Worcester
Zac Guildford (New Zealand) to Clermont
Sivivatu (Clermont) to Castres
Aled Brew (Biarritz) to Dragons
Lee Byrne (Clermont) to Dragons
Dwayne Peel (Sale) to Bristol
Thomas Waldrom (Leicester) to Exeter
Dan Evans (Dragons) to Ospreys
Ieuan Jones (Dragons) to Blues
Jean-Philippe Genevois (Biarritz) to Perpignan
Benoit Cabello (Clermont) to Perpignan
Sakiusa Matadigo (Racing) to Perpignan
Jonathan Wisniewski (Racing) to Grenoble
Leigh Halfpenny (Blues) to Toulon
Josh Turnbull (Scarlets) to Blues
Nick Abendanon (Bath) to Clermont
Anthony Perenise (Bath) to Bristol
Craig Mitchell (Exeter) to Blues
Hoani Tui (Exeter) to Lyon
Tavis Knoyle (Gloucester) to Blues
Marland Yarde (London Irish) to Harlequins
Neil Cochrane (Wasps) to Edinburgh
Henry Thomas (Sale) to Bath
Josh Matavesi (Worcester) to Ospreys
Nick Auterac (Saracens) to Bath
Boris Stankovich (Leicester) to Dragons
Bradley Davies (Blues) to London Wasps
Moray Low (Glasgow) to Exeter
Chris Cussiter (Glasgow) to Sale
Matt Stevens (Saracens) to Sharks
Sam Smith (Harlequins) to Worcester
James Gaskell (Sale) to Wasps
Eoin Griffin (Connacht) to London Irish
Sam Burgess (Rugby League) to Bath
Adam Hughes (Dragons) to Bristol
Sam Parry (Dragons) to Ospreys
Joe Rees (Ospreys) to Worcester
Ian Nagle (Munster) to Newcastle
Tom Guest (Halrequins) to London Irish
Luke Narraway (Perpignan) to London Irish
Freddie Burns (Gloucester) to Leicester
Matthew Morgan (Ospreys) to Bristol
Jim Hamilton (Montpellier) to Saracens
Toby Flood (Leicester) to Toulouse
Lote Tuquiri (Leinster) to NPC
Johnnie Beattie (Montpellier) to Castres
Ryan Jones (Ospreys) to Bristol
Greg Laidlaw (Edinburgh) to Gloucester
Brice Dulin (Castres) to Racing Metro
Antonie Claassen (Castres) to Racing Metro
Gio Aplon (South Africa) to Grenoble
Leonardo Ghiraldini (Treviso) to Leicester
Robert Barbieri (Treviso) to Leicester
Loamanu (Treviso) to Leicester
Rob Hawkins (Leicester) to Newcastle
Ian Gough (London Irish) to Dragons



Unconfirmed
Michele Rizzo (Treviso) to Leicester



Out of Contract
Adam Jones (Ospreys) - Looks like he is signing for Ospreys/WRU as indicated in press
Keith Earls (Munster)
Daniel Bowden (Leicester)
Scott Hamilton (Leicester)



Retiring
Brian O'Driscoll (Leinster)
Andrew Sheridan (Toulon - unconfirmed)
Steve Borthwick (Saracens)
Jonny Wilkinson (Toulon)
Sebastien Bruno (Toulon)
George Chuter (Leicester) moving to Worcester coaching
Johann Muller (Ulster)
Mike Tindall (Gloucester - unconfirmed)
Will James (Gloucester)

Chunky Norwich wrote:

HongKongCherry wrote:

He didn't spend big at City, far from it.  The City fans were hopeful he would, but this never materialised.

The point is, he spent. On football. That's hardly being frugal. He'll do much more at Bristol rugby.

I'm not entirely sure the point you're trying to make, perhaps it's just semantics and my use of frugal. He invested in football and now he has invested in rugby, neither are ventures that anyone would enter into with expectations of being profitable. He could have spent a lot more at City but didn't and I am wholly confident the same will be said about Bristol rugby.

Sgt_Pooly wrote:If only there was some way of watching matches in your own home on some kind of viewing device??

I think it could be the way forward.

Yeah, I am sure Bristol get lots of coverage too. I'd be surprised if Gatland was remotely interested in watching it anyway. At least if he was playing at RP, he would get more exposure and if he was playing well, it would be more obvious seeing as Gatland will watch us more for players like Taulupe and Coombsy etc. He probably isn't going to be overly keen on checking up on the form of Peel etc.

Risca Rev wrote:

Sgt_Pooly wrote:If only there was some way of watching matches in your own home on some kind of viewing device??

I think it could be the way forward.

Yeah, I am sure Bristol get lots of coverage too. I'd be surprised if Gatland was remotely interested in watching it anyway. At least if he was playing at RP, he would get more exposure and if he was playing well, it would be more obvious seeing as Gatland will watch us more for players like Taulupe and Coombsy etc. He probably isn't going to be overly keen on checking up on the form of Peel etc.

All AP games are available on the Premiership site.

HongKongCherry wrote:

Chunky Norwich wrote:

HongKongCherry wrote:

He didn't spend big at City, far from it.  The City fans were hopeful he would, but this never materialised.

The point is, he spent. On football. That's hardly being frugal. He'll do much more at Bristol rugby.

I'm not entirely sure the point you're trying to make, perhaps it's just semantics and my use of frugal.  He invested in football and now he has invested in rugby, neither are ventures that anyone would enter into with expectations of being profitable.  He could have spent a lot more at City but didn't and I am wholly confident the same will be said about Bristol rugby.  

My point is that I expect his venture into rugby to be alot more successful relatively, than his venture into football.

Dean Richards Newcastle Falcons clearout has began:

Franck Montanella - Released on mutual consent
Chris Pilgrim and James Fitzpatrick have signed 2 year deals at Leeds
Michael Tait has joined Edinburgh.

Surprised Montanella hasn't worked out, he was great for Welsh last year

He was great when he played Bathite, hardly seen him after the first 5 or so games.

With Vickers proving a decent option I wonder if we're clearing out to get a top player in......I can dream.

Sounds like cultural differences with Richards.

Yeah looks like its injuries with Montanella...and Dean has just had enough.

Looks like the start of a big clear out...i suspect Crocket etc will follow.

I still think he'll focus on the players brought up from the academy at the start of this season...and look to bring in one or two top quality players alongside Blair etc.

Sarge

Vickers has done pretty good admittedly (ive been overcritical) but id love to see Shiels fully fit and firing next season.

Would like to see someone like Deacon signed up for us, adds some real experience and is out of contract at the end of season.

Fluxy wrote:Would like to see someone like Deacon signed up for us, adds some real experience and is out of contract at the end of season.

Louis Deacon has signed a new contract for tigers already.

 Brett Deacon was forced to retire in December.

Yeah, but what about Deacon Blue?

they are available come next season but there busy till mid july.

New album coming out soon too

Bristow loaned back to London welsh.

Ah dang I thought Louis was still in contract talks!

I am expecting a couple of announcements from London Irish next week on new signings.

Ozzy3213 wrote:I am expecting a couple of announcements from London Irish next week on new signings.

any guesses.

I really hope Falcons announce some soon, I may be lacing up my boots next season if the exodus continues.

Hoping we get a bruiser of a lock announced soon. Very few on the market though.

Welly wrote:

Ozzy3213 wrote:I am expecting a couple of announcements from London Irish next week on new signings.

any guesses.

Sadly not, but rumours abound on the Irish message board of imminent announcements. Could all be idle speculation, but I think it's common knowledge that we have been talking to Stephen Brett for what seems like forever, so always the possibility that could be tied up.

Welshmushroom, You missed this one :-

FEBRUARY 27, 2014
Carlin Isles joins Glasgow Warriors
Posted by Editor on February 27, 2014 12:45 PM | No comments | Print | E-mail author

Carlin Isles has joined Glasgow Warriros
Glasgow Warriors have signed USA international sevens star Carlin Isles until at least May 2015, subject to a visa and medical.
24-year-old Isles has been dubbed the fastest rugby player in the world after swapping athletics for rugby in 2012.

His fastest 100 metre time of 10.13 seconds would have qualified for the semi-finals at the London 2012 Olympics and he was ranked as one of the fastest sprinters in the United States.

Born in Ohio, Isles started his rugby career at Gentlemen of Aspen RFC in Colorado, before going on to play for the USA national development team at the Victoria 7s in July 2012.

In October of the same year he made his debut for the USA national sevens team, at the Gold Coast 7s and scored a try in his first minute on the pitch.

Isles immediately became a key player for the USA Eagles and has been a regular in the team ever since. Utilising his electrifying pace and ability he has scored a number of breathtaking tries for his country.

He has scored 27 tries in 14 sevens tournaments for the USA national team in the IRB Sevens World Series and also featured for his country at the Rugby World Cup Sevens in Russia last year.

Isles has played at Scotstoun Stadium before, having represented the USA Eagles at the Glasgow 7s last May.

Before signing for the Warriors, Isles committed his future to rugby union earlier this month, following a short practice contract with the Detroit Lions NFL team.

He is due to fly into Glasgow within the next couple of weeks to join up with Gregor Townsend's squad at Scotstoun.

Carlin told glasgowwarriors.org: “I can’t wait to fly over to Glasgow and join up with my new teammates.

“Everything has happened so quickly for me over the last couple of years and I’m just happy to be playing rugby and getting the opportunity to play at the highest level.

“I hope to score tries for the Warriors, but I also want to continue to try and help grow the game and encourage young players to take up rugby.

“It's very exciting to be moving to the 15-a-side game. It's a lot different to 7s but I want to work hard and do everything I can to succeed.

I'm up for the challenge, I've been doing a lot of challenges in my life so this is just another obstacle and I'm ready to take it on.

"I've been in contact with Gregor (Townsend) a few times and knowing he really wants me and sees something in me means a lot and was a big factor in deciding to join the club.

“It would be nice to stay in Glasgow for a long time, but all my focus is on the next few months and the challenge ahead."

Glasgow Warriors head coach Gregor Townsend said: “This is a major coup for the club and a very exciting prospect.

“Carlin is an exceptionally gifted athlete, who has picked up the game of rugby in a very short period of time and has had a huge impact on the sevens circuit over the last couple of years.

"He is really eager to learn and develop as a winger in the fifteen-a-side game. With his lightning pace and evasion skills, he already has an excellent base to challenge for a starting place until the end of the season.

"I can't wait to get him over here to learn the 15s game, but there may also be an opportunity for him to play at the Melrose 7s in April, after we were invited to play in the tournament for the first time.

“We have a few injuries in our backline, with DTH van der Merwe out for the rest of the season and Sean Maitland currently on the sidelines, so it's great that we're able to strengthen our squad at this time and I’m sure he’ll fit in really well at Scotstoun."

Geoff Cross to sign for irish after 6nations iv heard. Brett not far off being announced and an unknown back 3 player.

Brett would appear to be a done deal, as I heard this morning that iHumph is off back to Ulster.

Cross on a long term deal? Interesting...

Is Keating the back 3 player?

stnick88 wrote:Geoff Cross to sign for irish after 6nations iv heard. Brett not far off being announced and an unknown back 3 player.

any more info on Geoff cross as that would add some serious weight to our front row.

LeinsterFan4life wrote:Is Keating the back 3 player?

keating has not played in the premership so not him,

Just wait and see exileray   

Flood confirmed to Toulouse

http://www.espn.co.uk/france-top-14-2013-14/rugby/story/218407.html

Stringer signs new 1 year contract with Bath. He still looks like he hasn't aged a day since he made his debut for Ireland

LeinsterFan4life wrote:Stringer signs new 1 year contract with Bath. He still looks like he hasn't aged a day since he made his debut for Ireland

has he ever had hair? i can't ever remember him having hair which is probably why he looks like he hasn't aged.

Socino signs on a 2 year deal with Falcons for next season from Rotherham.

Cracking signing.

Also Dom Barrow and Scott Wilson have signed new 2 year deals.

Sale sign De Marchi. Thought the chat on here was he was going to Tigers?

http://www.planetrugby.co.uk/story/0,25883,16024_9221116,00.html

James Short from Sarries to London Irish just announced ...

I wish James Short all the best. Hope he flourishes at London Irish. Always going to appreciate Short's efforts in our AP winning final with his try.

Personally I think 7s would have suited him better...

I saw him at the 7's at The Stoop the year before last and he was rapid. I reckon he could do quite well for us.

A few years ago (Sarries' winning year), he looked like a future England international. He seems to have fallen away a bit since then, but he clearly has a lot of potential. I could easily see him getting back to his best with us as he suits the way we like to play.

He was at Bedford last year wasnt he?

Anyone heard any new interesting rumours?

Geordiefalcon don't think do. Short is currently being loaned out to Wasps by Saracens due to their injury problems.

Gloucester fans what has happened to Ian Clark? He has seemed to have fallen off the radar.

From the article about who people want to sign seems like THs and locks are in high demand.

Manoa Vosawai linked with the Blues (from Treviso)

Harry Robinson linked with the Scarlets (from the Blues)

Blues have apparently signed a 'Top Lock' according to a writer for the Western Mail on Twitter. Jarrad Hoeata, who plays for the Highlanders and Taranaki follows the blues on twitter... Would make sense if it was him, we've signed Tuifua from Taranaki and our scout in NZ is former Blues captain Paul tito...who is also a former Taranaki player.

My only issue is Hoeata is 30, could any of our NZ posters give us an idea what he's like?

Bathite wrote:Sale sign De Marchi. Thought the chat on here was he was going to Tigers?

http://www.planetrugby.co.uk/story/0,25883,16024_9221116,00.html

 He was linked but then the talk of him going to Toulon and Leicester all but signing the three Italian internationals prob meant signing him was out of cap.

 if Rizzo comes then LH isn't lacking in depth any more, Cockers has said he is looking to bring in a TH prop for added depth.

 TBH I don't think we need many more signings this year just depends on who leaves (Bowden, Goneva and Matera) are the main ones whose contract is up in the air.

beshocked wrote:Anyone heard any new interesting rumours?

Geordiefalcon don't think do. Short is currently being loaned out to Wasps by Saracens due to their injury problems.

Gloucester fans what has happened to Ian Clark? He has seemed to have fallen off the radar.

From the article about who people want to sign seems like THs and locks are in high demand.

He's gone. He left Glaws at the end of last season and went to Coventry I believe, not sure what has happened to him since. He was a very fast and elusive player, but his stature was a major issue, he was simply just far too small for top level rugby. he was brave in the tackle, but even with a half decent technique he made little impact. He is definitely one he should focus on 7s instead as he could be great.

Agree Welly. Ayerza, Rizzo, Bristow at loosehead and Cole, Mulipola, Balmain is a good set of options at prop especially when Mulipola can play both sides and both Rudkin and Pasquali have good potential.

formerly known as Sam wrote:Agree Welly. Ayerza, Rizzo, Bristow at loosehead and Cole, Mulipola, Balmain is a good set of options at prop especially when Mulipola can play both sides and both Rudkin and Pasquali have good potential.

 apparently according to the offy just now.

 Bai has been trying to convince Goneva to stay at tigers.

One for the Blouse

http://www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-news/cardiff-blues-sign-italian-international-6856719#.Uyr60ewX4K4.twitter

The Treviso exodus appears in full swing. I think a good many teams will see Italian arrivals this summer. Hope everyone is practicing their pronunciation in preparation.

Italian rugby is in free fall atm. Tough times ahead for them.

Munster and Northampton both rumoured to be after Sheridan at LI.

Risca Rev wrote:One for the Blouse

http://www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-news/cardiff-blues-sign-italian-international-6856719#.Uyr60ewX4K4.twitter

Seriously what kind of team will Treviso have next year? on top of my head thats De Marchi, Rizzo, Cittadini, Barbieri, Vosawai, Ghiraldini, Loamanu all gone, sursprised their best forward -Zanni- hasn't signed anywhere yet.

Beginning to think we would be better with a 3rd Scottish team replacing them in the league.