Bath Secure Will Stuart Until 2028 as European Transfer Market Heats Up

Bath Rugby secures Will Stuart to 2028 while Munster's Mike Prendergast and Scotland's Ben Healy prepare for new challenges in the 2026/27 season.

By: AXL Media

Published: Feb 26, 2026, 8:19 AM EST

Source: The information in this article was sourced from Planet Rugby

A Cornerstone for Bath

Bath Rugby has solidified its front row by securing Will Stuart until 2028. The 29-year-old tighthead has become an indispensable asset for both club and country, amassing 105 caps for Bath and 53 for England. Stuart’s stock rose significantly in the summer of 2025 when he played a pivotal role in the British & Irish Lions' 2-1 series victory over Australia. Reflecting on the club’s turnaround from the bottom of the table in 2022 to their current resurgence, Stuart cited the passionate fan support at The Rec as a primary reason for his commitment.

Coaching Rumours and Munster Departures

Speculation is mounting that Bath Head of Rugby Johann van Graan may reunite with former colleague Mike Prendergast. The 48-year-old coach has confirmed he will leave Munster at the end of the current season after four years with the province. Prendergast, who previously played for Gloucester, is seeking a "new challenge," and a move to the West Country to replace Lee Blackett who left for the England setup in September 2025 appears a likely fit. Munster officials expressed disappointment at his exit but praised his role in their recent URC title success.

Irish Stars Look to France

The Top 14 continues to attract elite talent from the United Rugby Championship. Leinster veteran Luke McGrath is reportedly set to join Perpignan after spending his entire career in Dublin. McGrath, who has over 250 provincial caps, has struggled for consistent starts behind Jamison Gibson-Park and looks to join an ambitious Perpignan side that recently signed All Blacks Sevu Reece and Braydon Ennor. Similarly, former Munster fly-half Ben Healy is expected to join Ronan O’Gara at La Rochelle. Edinburgh coach Sean Everitt confirmed Healy’s contract would not be renewed, paving the way for the Scottish international to test himself in the French league.