Newcastle Red Bulls sign England qualified Zack Henry

Stade Francais fly-half Zack Henry will become Newcastle Red Bulls’ 14th new signing when he joins in the summer, as there looks to be no end in sight to their spending spree.

Brighton-born Henry, 31, who was told earlier in the season that his Stade deal wasn’t being renewed, returns to the Gallagher PREM on a one-year deal five years after leaving Leicester Tigers.

The former Bath University student started his career in France with Richard Hill at Rouen and Nevers before his year at the Tigers, where he played 26 times, including in a Challenge Cup semi-final.

Henry returned to France to star for Pau before earning his move to Stade Francais, for whom he is closing in on 50 appearances, but he says that he is looking forward to his summer move to Tyneside.

“I’m really looking forward to coming back. I have spent nine years of my professional career in France, and my only time in the PREM was during Covid, so I’m excited about coming home and having the full experience.

“I’m also really excited by what Newcastle are building. I’ve had some inspiring conversations with the club, and I can’t wait to be part of such an ambitious project.

“I’ve loved every minute of my time in France and am eternally grateful for how it’s shaped me, both on and off the field. Hopefully, I can bring some of that experience to the Red Bulls next season,” he said.

Sporting general manager Neil McIlroy said: “Zack is a very accomplished fly-half who knows his way around the field and has played at a high level for a number of years now.

“He has the attacking skill set to help get our back line firing, as well as a strong kicking game.

“He will get the best out of the players around him, and we look forward to seeing his positive contribution towards developing our evolving game plan.”