Bold headline: Bath nails down Will Stuart through 2028, while others move on and the rugby world buzzes with transfer talk. But here’s where it gets controversial... Will Stuart commits to Bath after a standout 2025 season, signaling Bath’s intention to build a core around their England and British & Irish Lion prop as he enters the prime years of his career.
Bath Rugby has confirmed the re-signing of Will Stuart until 2028. Since joining Bath in 2019, Stuart has racked up 105 club appearances and 53 England caps, establishing himself as a reliable force in the scrum. His latest milestone came in 2025 when he earned his British & Irish Lions selection, contributing to a 2-1 series win over the Wallabies.
Stuart reflected on the journey from disaster to triumph: he recalled the 2021/22 season’s lows—dropping to the bottom of the table after a late-season defeat at Sixways—versus the exhilaration of last summer, when Bath’s supporters flooded Great Pulteney Street in celebration. He framed the choice to stay as an obvious one: pride, purpose, and a desire to chase more success with Bath.
Johann van Graan, Bath’s Head of Rugby, praised Stuart’s development over the past three-and-a-half years, noting his breakout form in 2025 and his steady presence as a leader for both Bath and England. Van Graan emphasized that Stuart is central to Bath’s plans, not just in the pack but across the whole squad.
Meanwhile, whispers surface about Mike Prendergast’s future. RugbyPass reported that Bath might pursue Prendergast, the former Munster coach who is set to leave his current role at the end of the season. A return to England could appeal to him, particularly given his earlier stint with Gloucester during his playing days.
Prendergast reflected on his decision to depart Munster, describing the decision as profoundly difficult after four years back home with a club that means a lot to him. He highlighted the special status Munster holds for him, while acknowledging that a fresh challenge awaits.
Munster Rugby acknowledged his contributions and expressed gratitude, stressing the impact of his coaching and character on the environment and its memorable moments, including their URC title win. Costello emphasized his enduring pride as a Munster man and wished him and his family success in the next chapter.
Off the field, Irish talent movement continues to capture headlines. Ireland has begun talks with Andy Farrell amid concerns about his future following a lucrative offer reportedly tabled by other parties. The transfer market also stirs chatter about Luke McGrath potentially moving to Perpignan, aiming to secure regular first-team action after years behind top competition in Dublin. The Canadian-born scrum-half has over 250 caps for Leinster and 20 for Ireland but has often found himself rotating with Jamison Gibson-Park.
Perpignan has been busy in the window, bringing in multiple players for the next season, including All Blacks Sevu Reece and Braydon Ennor, signaling a significant shift in their squad as they chase stability in a competitive league.
On the Munster side, Ronan O’Gara’s plans reportedly include bringing former Munster talisman Ben Healy to La Rochelle for next season after a season in which he faced competition at Edinburgh and saw Cammy Scott rise through the ranks. Edinburgh’s coach Sean Everitt acknowledged Healy’s value but explained that contract discussions and form factored into their decision.
Overall, the winter transfer window remains a hotbed of speculation, with teams weighing continuity against bold, door-opening moves. The ripple effects could reshape strategies across Ireland, England, and the French Top 14 as clubs balance depth, leadership, and fresh talent. Where do you stand on these moves—do they strengthen the long-term prospects of the clubs involved, or do they risk destabilizing established hierarchies? Share your take in the comments.
