Rugby Transfers: All Blacks duo latest to recommit, PREM side fend off Top 14 interest for Test ace and Italian star on the move
The All Blacks have seen two of their stars, Leroy Carter and Simon Parker, commit to New Zealand Rugby (NZR) for the foreseeable future. Meanwhile, the Northampton Saints have secured France international Anthony Belleau for another season, despite Top 14 interest, and Marco Riccioni is set to join Perpignan from Saracens.
All Blacks duo Carter and Parker re-sign with NZR
Current All Blacks players Carter and Parker have extended their contracts with NZR, joining the likes of Cam Roigard in committing to the national side. As part of their new deals, they will also play for the Chiefs in Super Rugby Pacific and their respective provinces, Bay of Plenty and Northland.
Carter, a former Sevens player, has become a regular in the All Blacks' starting XV, making his debut against the Springboks and earning five caps. Parker, who also made his debut in the 2025 Rugby Championship, has accumulated eight caps since.
Carter expressed his excitement about staying with the All Blacks, stating, 'I don't want to play for another club, so it was an easy decision. It's a dream come true, and I'm looking forward to it.'
Parker added, 'It's the right time to think about the future. We don't want to leave it too late, so it was a no-brainer for my family and me. We're happy to stay where we are for the next few seasons.'
Chiefs head coach Jono Gibbes praised their commitment, saying, 'They are outstanding team members with that special X-factor. They are crucial to the Chiefs' future on and off the field.'
Northampton Saints re-sign Belleau, fend off Top 14 interest
France international Belleau has signed a new deal with the Northampton Saints, turning down Top 14 offers. His decision comes after a strong first season at the club, with reports linking him with a return to the Top 14, notably to Toulon.
Belleau reflected on his decision, saying, 'Moving away from France was a challenge, but the Saints offer was too good to pass up. It's been incredibly enriching, both on and off the field, and I've grown as a player and a person.'
Saints director of rugby Phil Dowson highlighted Belleau's impact, stating, 'Anthony is a significant signing for us. He brings genuine competition at fly-half, which is crucial for our team's style of play.'
Marco Riccioni to join Perpignan from Saracens
Italian international Marco Riccioni is set to join Perpignan from Saracens at the end of the season, according to L'Equipe. This move will end his five-year stint at Saracens, where he has made 68 appearances and helped win a PREM title.
Riccioni, 28, has been a regular for the Italian side since his debut in 2019, earning 36 Test caps. His potential departure from Saracens might be followed by other players, with Samoa international Theo McFarland joining La Rochelle.
