This might be the tightest Premiership title race for some years, but clubs are already strengthening their ranks for next year.
The mass exodus to France is still ongoing, with the likes of Manu Tuilagi, Kyle Sinkler and Lewis Ludlam amongst a large group of players heading across the channel this Summer, but in their place are some incoming superstars; showing the Premiership is once again getting into a strong position.
The salary cap has also been a big bump in the road for any potential recruitment. In 2021, the cap was lowered from £6.4 million to £5 million, however from the start of next season it will go back up to £6.4 million. This rise has been fairly controversial, given recent history, however it does mean Premiership clubs can afford to bring in more reinforcements.
But which new arrivals have caught the eye so far? Here are five of the best new signings ahead of the 2024/2025 season.
Five of the best signings ahead of the 2024/2025 Premiership season
Waisea Nayacalevu: Toulon-Sale Sharks
Sale have replaced a world beating centre with another one. The arrival of Nayacalevu is a huge statement from the Sharks, and it shows proper trophy winning intent. The current Fiji captain is a top-quality centre on both sides of the ball; but will provide Sale with true X-factor in attack.
Christian Wade: Racing 92-Gloucester
A brilliant signing by Gloucester. Christian Wade set the Premiership alight by scoring 85 tries across his seven seasons for Wasps, and his time in the NFL will only have made him a more complete athlete. He will bring bags of pace and power to an already exciting back division at Kingsholm, but it is another statement signing from George Skivington.
Sam Spink: Western Force-Saracens
Another former Wasp makes the list. Sam Spink has put pen to paper on a deal to bring him to the StoneX next season, but his time down under has shown he can be the powerful centre Saracens have lacked since Brad Barrett’s departure. He is hugely effective in getting his team across the gain line, and also has bags of pace for a player of his size.
Viliame Mata: Edinburgh-Bristol Bears
Another flying Fijian is on his way to the Premiership! Mata is swapping the Scottish capital for the West Country, and he will add plenty of firepower to an already loaded Bristol back-row. The Olympic gold medallist is a fantastic ball carrier, and also boasts a brilliant offloading ability.
Nicky Smith: Ospreys-Leicester Tigers
The headlines might be dominated by X-factor backs, but Welsh international Nicky Smith could be a fantastic signing for the Tigers. He is a powerful scrummager, and is a good operator in the tight; but more importantly he will be a good mentor to up-and-coming loosehead James Whitcombe.
Honourable mention
Gareth Anscombe: Free agent-Gloucester
It was a tough choice between Wade and Anscombe. The Welsh international will bring plenty of experience to Kingsholm next season, and after a year away from the game his injury issues should be all cleared up. He also offers versatility in the backs, as he can cover both fly-half and fullback.
