Zach Mercer to join Gloucester?

Former Bath star Zach Mercer could be turning out in the colours of Gloucester in the near future as reports indicate that he has struck a deal with the Cherry & Whites.  

Mercer currently plies his trade with Montpellier in the Top 14, whom he joined in 2021 after five seasons at Bath. 

Mercer admitted in June that he had met with England boss Eddie Jones who asked the loose-forward if he would be prepared to rejoin the Premiership for the 2022-23 season. However, Mercer elected to stick by his French club for the upcoming season, but French newspaper Midi Libre are reporting that Mercer is set to sign a three or four year deal with Gloucester commencing next June, which would render him available for England duty during the World Cup. 

“We saw each other in Marseille during the European Cup final,” Mercer said. “He asked me if I could come back this summer. It would be a way to test me for the summer tour in Australia in July, but I politely replied that I was still under contract next season. I will be there (in Montpellier) next year. He respects that.” 

An extract from the report: 

“The rumour had been circulating for several weeks and has now found a concrete echo. Zach Mercer, Top 14 superstar last season, will leave the MHR at the end of his contract next June to join Gloucester in England. According to our information, a long-term contract has been put on the table (three or four years). 

“It is a logical choice for the 25-year-old back row, considered one of the best in his position since his arrival in France. If Mercer had stayed in Montpellier next season (2023/24), he would not have been able to apply for a selection with England for the World Cup in France in 2023. Given his performances in the Top 14, if he continues at such a level over the next year, there is no doubt that Eddie Jones will call on his services for the World Cup.” 

Mercer has been capped twice for his country – both during the 2018 season where he turned out against South Africa and Japan but has since been overlooked. However, since joining Montpellier, he has been in form which cannot be ignored.