Newcastle Red Bulls continue shopping spree with 18-stone Argentine international

Argentina lock Franco Molina has signed a two-season deal with PREM side Newcastle Red Bulls, following a brief stint at Australian side Western Force.

Cordoba-born Molina will play out the 2026 Super Rugby season in Australia before making the move to Tyneside in the summer.

The 6-foot-5 forward is already familiar with England’s top flight, having made 17 appearances for Exeter Chiefs last season, including starting the Premiership Cup final in their loss to Bath.

The 28-year-old has also played 20 times for Los Pumas, including victories over New Zealand, Australia, France and the British & Irish Lions. He most recently appeared off the bench for Argentina during their Autumn Nations Series loss to England.

Speaking about his upcoming move, he said: “I’m incredibly honoured to be joining Newcastle Red Bulls – a club that has such a rich affinity with Argentinian players.

“After my conversation with Jonny Petrie and Neil McIlroy, it is obvious that this is a really exciting time to be involved with the club, and I cannot wait for what is to come.

“I’m looking forward to meeting my team-mates and achieving something special there.”

Newcastle Red Bulls’ sporting general manager Neil McIlroy said: “Franco has built up a good body of international experience over the last few years, playing in many big games for Argentina.

“He knows the Gallagher PREM from his time with Exeter, and his set-piece ability will stand us in good stead as we look to put this club on a clear upward trajectory.”

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The Red Bull Rebuild

Molina is yet another big name set to make his way to Tyneside, alongside former Chiefs teammate Josh Hodge, and All Black international Hoskins Sotutu.

While Newcastle are investing heavily in bringing external talent into the club, there’s also a huge effort being made to keep the developing talent from moving elsewhere.

Following Hodge’s re-signing with the club, Newcastle Red Bulls’ sporting general manager Neil McIlroy said: “There’s understandable frustration around the number of players who have developed in Newcastle’s academy, but who have moved away to fulfil their ambitions.

“We are committed to Newcastle Red Bulls being a club where homegrown talent can flourish, so that the Josh Hodges of the future will not feel the need to go elsewhere.”

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