Racing 92, who recently signed former England captain Owen Farrell, is the latest club to be linked with Gloucester and England back row Zach Mercer, who will be out of contract at the end of the upcoming season.
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According to the French website Rugby Prime, Mercer is a target for Stuart Lancaster.
There are also rumours, reported by rugby transfer expert Neil Fissler this week, suggesting that Mercer could be making an immediate move to France, though these claims are unconfirmed.
Toulon, who have long admired Mercer, are also interested in the player. Mercer won the Top 14 title and was named the league’s player of the year during his two seasons with Montpellier.
However, Racing 92 and former England boss Stuart Lancaster is reportedly considering him as a potential replacement for Siya Kolisi.
Stuart Lancaster’s son makes blockbuster move, he could play for England’s Six Nations rival
Stuart Lancaster’s overhaul of the Racing 92 squad is set to feature a notable addition with his son, Dan Lancaster joining the Parisians.
Reports in France earlier this year suggested Lancaster and James are expected to join former England captain Owen Farrell at the Paris La Défense Arena this summer, subject to medical clearance in the French capital. He has since joined the Top 14 heavyweights for pre-season.
While Dan Lancaster will be ineligible to represent England during his tenure in France, he remains a potential call-up for Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend, thanks to his Dumfries-born grandmother.
The 23-year-old versatile playmaker, who showcased his skills with Ealing Trailfinders last season, is equally proficient at fly-half and inside centre.
Lancaster has represented both Scotland and England at youth level.
NIGEL OWENS DREAM XV:
Fullback: Israel Folau (Australia)
Owens said: “For me, it’s nip and tuck between Halfpenny and Folau, next to nothing to choose between them. Leigh is brilliant because under the high ball and with his kicking at goal under pressure. He may not always break the line when running but puts his body on the line in defence and is a top-notch match-winner.
“But I go for Folau – only just, I should stress – because of his ability to seemingly beat his man every time he gets the ball in his hand. He’s such an exciting player and like Leigh he is one of the best under the high ball.
“It’s a toss of a coin for me… and it’s come down in Folau’s favour.”
Winger: Stuart Hogg (Scotland)
Owens said: “How can you fail to be impressed when watching Hogg play. He’s so exciting as he burst into that line and, of course, was named Six Nations player of the tournament.
“I know he’s a full-back for Scotland, but he is so quick and direct he could easily play on the wing. He reminds me a bit of Shane Williams with some of the things he does.
“When you see who is on the other wing in my team, you’ll see how they would work brilliantly in tandem.”
Outside-centre: Brian O’Driscoll (Ireland)
Owens said: “Not only is he one of the greatest centres in the history of rugby union but he’s a fantastic man off the field as well. O’Driscoll has been a wonderful ambassador for the sport and a real leader. He always respected referees and set the right example for others to follow.
“A legend of the game who conducted himself superbly, on and off the pitch.”
Inside-centre: Ma’a Nonu (New Zealand)
Owens said: “He’s another brilliant player and after every game, win or lose, he would come up and give me a hug. Ma’a has always found time at after-match functions or at breakfast if we’ve been staying at the same hotel to come over and have a chat.
“What a player, mind, too. One of the stalwarts of the New Zealand side for so many years.”
Winger: Shane Williams (Wales)
Owens said: “When people ask me who is the best player I have refereed it’s pretty much an impossible task to pick one because I’ve been lucky enough to take charge of so many greats.
“But if I’m pushed, I would pick Shane for what he achieved after coming from football at 17 or 18 years of age.
“He was in the mould of Gerald Davies in how he left defenders gasping for air as he beat them with those dazzling sidesteps. Nobody would fancy defending against a back three of Shane, Hogg and Folau, I can tell you that.”