Leicester Tigers have bolstered their ranks with the addition of a Samoan international, while a Wallabies forward has made an immediate exit from the Top 14.
Here are all the latest rugby rumours, transfers and contract renewals.
Leicester Tigers sign Samoan international
PREM outfit Leicester Tigers have bolstered their front-row stock with the immediate addition of Samoan international Richie Asiata.
The 30-year-old hooker moves to the East Midlands after a stint with NPC outfit Tasman, but also brings strong experience from his time at Benetton and the Queensland Reds.
He also has two Test caps for Samoa after making his debut in July’s World Rugby Nations Cup, and was recently included in their extended squad for the November Tests.
Commenting on joining Leicester, Asiata said: “I’m excited to have signed for Tigers. This is a new opportunity for me on this side of the world. I’ve played in Australia for a while, so it’s pretty exciting to try something new.”
“I spoke to James O’Connor, Ben Volavola and Izaia Perese, they told me about the history of Leicester. The fans are unreal, it’s pretty crazy at home games.”
“I’m really happy to get involved; I can’t wait to get to know the boys, the fans and the culture.”
Tigers head coach, Geoff Parling, added: “Richie brings top-level experience with over 50 Super Rugby caps to a position of need.”
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“He’s hungry for the chance to prove himself in the PREM, and we welcome him, Leilani and Lior to Tigers.”
Wallabies forward in Top 14 exit
Rob Leota has made an immediate exit from Top 14 outfit Bayonne, after one season with the French side.
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The 29-year-old forward, who can play both back-row and lock, joined Bayonne from Super Rugby Pacific side Waratahs last year, and made 12 appearances in all competitions in his debut season.
However, he suffered a knee injury against Montauban back in March and has not played for the club since.
In a statement, Bayonne said: “After a season spent in Bayonne, Rob Leota, in agreement with the club, will leave the professional squad from October 13, 2026.
“Aviron Bayonnais Rugby Pro thanks Rob for his commitment to the Sky and White colours and wishes him all the best for the rest of his professional career.”
His immediate exit does open the door for a possible return to Australia ahead of the 2027 Super Rugby Pacific season. Leota is no stranger to that competition, representing both the Tahs and the Melbourne Rebels across his career to date. A return down under could also put him back in the mix for the Wallabies, after winning the last of his 21 Test caps during the 2023 World Cup.