Saracens want to take on French clubs in the race to bring Sharks and Springboks fly-half Jordan Hendrikse to North London next season.
The Gallagher PREM outfit has Scotland international Fergus Burke out of contract at the end of the season, and Edinburgh and Newcastle Red Bulls have shown interest in taking him north.
Saracens are also looking for a long-term successor to England legend Owen Farrell, who turns 36 at the start of next season and is at the back end of his career.
Hendrikse’s background
Hendrikse, 25, made his Lions debut at 19. In his first season, he was nominated for the 2021 Junior Springbok Player of the Year and SA Young Player of the Year awards.
He is the younger brother of fellow Springbok Jaden Hendrikse. He has also played full back and inside centre, and he moved to the Sharks three seasons ago.
Return from injury
Hendrikse made his first appearance of the season on Sunday in a 40-33 Challenge Cup win over Lyon, landing five conversions. He had suffered a hamstring injury in the victory over Cardiff in March.
Sharks head coach JP Pietersen said last week that he was delighted to have Hendrikse available, as it gave him a good selection headache.
“It’s good to have Jordan back. He struggled with a hammy, but he looks in good nick now, the body is all good, and he’s part of an exciting backline.
“Hopefully he and a few experienced campaigners can unleash the backs. We’re happy to have Jordan back, but there’s no pressure on him. We just want him to get some game fitness in and get through the match.”
French competition
Lyon is one of the Top 14 clubs that could throw a spanner in Brendan Venter’s plans to sign Hendrikse. He earned his last two Springbok caps in a win over Wales in November 2024.
Hendrikse’s CV has also drawn interest from Stade Français and Montpellier, who have asked for updates on his career plans.