According to rugby transfer expert Neil Fissler, Toulouse are keen for open-side flanker Jack Willis to end speculation of a Premiership return by signing a new long-term contract to stay in the Pink City.
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The 27-year-old, currently contracted until 2026, has impressed Les Rouge et Noir with his comeback from a neck injury that cut short his participation in England’s Rugby World Cup campaign.
Willis, a popular figure in southern France, has downplayed the prospect of returning to the Gallagher Premiership—where his younger brother Tom plays for Saracens—after playing a key role in Toulouse’s Top 14 and Investec Champions Cup successes.
A potential Premiership return in the summer of 2026 could offer Willis a valuable lead-in to the next World Cup, particularly if he teams up with Tom.
Alternatively, he could become a pivotal figure for a club seeking an on-field leader. Premiership rules allow for a “marquee” or “exempt” player, whose salary would not count towards the cap, making Willis an appealing option financially.
For England head coach Steve Borthwick, Willis would be a significant asset as the World Cup cycle concludes. Additionally, with Lions selection on the horizon, his achievements with Toulouse position him as a strong contender for Andy Farrell’s squad.
“Inexcusable” – Four England players who flopped and who should replace them for second test
New Zealand narrowly defeated England 16-15 in a thrilling opening Test in Dunedin, marking a victorious start for new head coach Scott Robertson.
Below, we look at what changes Steve Borthwick could make for next weekend’s clash with the All Blacks at Eden Park.
#1. Marcus Smith
Rugby Pass 5/10: “Inexcusable miss in front of the posts early in the second half, but bounced back immediately with some passes timed to absolute perfection as England scored their second. After being penned back in the first half due to New Zealand’s territorial supremacy, he was able to express himself much more after the break as England gained more control. Unfortunately, two kicks from five are the statistics that can define Test matches though, and that might well have been the case in Dunedin”
Telegraph 6/10: “Missed two sitters off the tee which England had to take. Didn’t love the grubber when England were attacking well but two slick passes before Feyi-Waboso’s score. Bottom line, the missed points were critical. “
Replacement: Fin Smith is waiting the wings, but we’d give Marcus another run out next weekend