Newcastle sign Crusaders flanker Christie

Tom Christie joined the Crusaders academy in 2016 and went on to make over 50 senior appearances

Newcastle Red Bulls have signed flanker Tom Christie on a two-year deal from Super Rugby side Crusaders.

The 27-year-old is a three-time Super Rugby winner with Crusaders having won the Pacific finals in three of the past four years.

Christie, a former New Zealand Under-20 captain, has made over 50 appearances for the Crusaders and skippered them for the first time against the Chiefs in 2024.

"I'm incredibly excited to be joining Newcastle, a club with such a rich history and passionate fanbase," he told the club website.

"With the plans and backing from the new investors, I believe we can achieve something special.

"After my conversation with Steve [Diamond] I knew this was where I wanted to be. I can't wait to contribute to the team and help the club achieve its goals."

Energy drinks giant Red Bull completed their takeover of the Prem Rugby club on Tuesday.

Christie is Newcastle's first signing since the deal was confirmed, but the fifth new arrival this month.

Over the past two weeks the club have brought in Scotland lock Jamie Hodgson, forward Freddie Clarke from Gloucester, Japan international back-rower Amanaki Mafi and Argentina scrum-half Simon Benitez Cruz.