Raffi Quirke confirmed as Newcastle Red Bulls newest recruit

Raffi Quirke will swap Sale Sharks for Newcastle Red Bulls in the summer, with the 24-year-old scrum-half joining on a two-year deal.

One of the most potent attacking nines in the Gallagher PREM, Quirke has played 80 games during his seven seasons with Sale, having come through their academy.

Capped twice by England and last season also representing England A, the Broughton Park half-back spoke of his delight at joining the Red Bulls revolution.

He said: “Having been up to visit Newcastle and listen to their vision, I could only be massively excited about the new journey they are all on with Red Bull.

“I want to be part of that new story, and I look forward to bringing my energy and attacking mindset to a club that deserves to be shaking up the old rugby order for the fans in the North East.

“I will be forever grateful to Alex Sanderson at Sale Sharks, as well as the club, the players and supporters there. It has been an amazing experience that has shaped me on and off the pitch.”

Newcastle Red Bulls sporting general manager Neil McIlroy said: “Raffi is one of the most exciting talents in English rugby, and is approaching his peak years.

“He will help take our attack onto the next level with the way he plays the game and the experience he has built up, despite still being only 24.

“It’s another statement signing which reiterates how serious we are about taking this club to the next level, and he knows how important rugby is to the north of England.

“Having already had a taste of international rugby I am sure he will be hoping to showcase his talents to achieve further recognition, and he certainly has the ability to do that as part of an ambitious Newcastle squad.”

RAFFI QUIRKE BIOG

Position: Scrum-half

Born: 18/8/2001

Height: 1.78m (5 foot 10)

Weight: 85kg (13 stone 5)

Honours: England