Gloucester’s back-rower Zach Mercer is reportedly on the brink of rejoining the French Top 14, with a move to Toulon in the works.
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The 27-year-old is said to have been bought out of the final two years of his four-year contract with Gloucester and is expected to link up with Bernard Lemaitre’s Toulon squad for the 2025/26 season, according to Gloucestershire Live.
Mercer is no stranger to the Top 14, having previously starred in the league with Montpellier, where he was named Player of the Year for the 2021/22 season and played a key role in their title-winning campaign.
After returning to England in 2023 to boost his international prospects and be closer to his wife’s family, Mercer signed a four-year deal with Gloucester. However, despite early interest from then-England head coach Eddie Jones, Mercer’s hopes of a regular international spot faded after Jones’s exit.
Reports suggest that Gloucester were keen to address the uncertainty surrounding Mercer’s future, as it had allegedly caused some unrest within the squad.
An official announcement from both clubs is expected soon.
When asked about Mercer’s future, Gloucester’s response was measured: “Look, from my point of view I don’t really want to talk too much about that,” said Director of Rugby George Skivington.
“It’s common knowledge that lots of teams, particularly from France, would like to sign Zach, but I’d rather only discuss it when we have something concrete.”
#1. Zach Mercer to New Zealand
It’s noteworthy that the versatile number eight holds the option to switch his allegiance to New Zealand.
This possibility arises due to his eligibility for the All Blacks, facilitated by his father’s illustrious rugby league career that encompassed 21 Test appearances for the New Zealand team.
