Hoskins Sotutu to join Newcastle Red Bulls

Newcastle Red Bulls have sent a major statement of their intent with the signing of blockbusting No.8 Hoskins Sotutu, who arrives next season on a three-year deal.

The 27-year-old has been capped 14 times by New Zealand and brings proven star quality to the Gallagher PREM.

A prolific try-scorer who has dotted down 31 times in his 80 Super Rugby games, the 6-foot-4 forward steered the Blues to the 2024 title, taking the Super Rugby MVP award in the process.

Renowned for his offloading, athleticism and devastating attacking ability, the landmark signing of Sotutu makes clear the ambition of Newcastle Red Bulls as the club plots a course towards the top end of the domestic and European game.

Sporting general manager Neil McIlroy said: “This is a huge signing which brings major firepower into the club, and sends a message around the league.

“Hoskins is a player who was very much in demand from other teams, but he has seen what is being planned at Newcastle Red Bulls and wants to be part of it.

“He’s an X-factor player who will make a big impact on the field, and the way he plays will get people off their seats.

“The profile of the club and the Gallagher PREM as a whole will grow massively as a result of him joining us, and this is a signing which shows we really mean business.”

Sotutu said: “I am excited to be committing to Newcastle Red Bulls' project moving forward, and coming to compete in the Gallagher PREM week in, week out. 

“The club made it clear to me how ambitious they are, and I am looking forward to getting started.

“I have enjoyed my time at the Blues and am looking to finish on a high before hitting the ground running in the North East of England.”