Saracens want to go head-to-head with French clubs in the battle to lure 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 seeking a long-term successor to England legend Owen Farrell, who turns 36 at the start of next season and is now at the back end of his career.
Hendrikse’s background
Hendrikse, 25, made his Lions debut at 19. In his first season, he earned nominations for the 2021 Junior Springbok Player of the Year and SA Young Player of the Year awards.
The younger brother of fellow Springbok Jaden Hendrikse, he has also played full back and inside centre. He moved to the Sharks three seasons ago.
Back from injury
Hendrikse made his first appearance of the season in the Sharks’ 40-33 Challenge Cup win over Lyon on Sunday. He landed five conversions after a hamstring injury suffered 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 are one of the Top 14 clubs that could throw a spanner in Brendan Venter’s plans to sign Hendrikse. The fly-half earned his last two Springbok caps in a win over Wales in November 2024.
Stade Français and Montpellier have also shown interest in Hendrikse’s CV and have asked for updates on his career plans.