Blacklisted England star holds talks about shock All Blacks switch

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Mercer, 28, didn't feature for England since Borthwick took charge, despite returning to the Prem in 2023 with Gloucester in a bid to reignite his Test career. His omission during that spell added to growing frustration, with the back-rower unable to force his way into the squad even after removing the barrier of playing abroad.

That experience ultimately shaped his next move. After a season back in England without international recognition, Mercer opted to return to France with Toulon, a decision that has effectively placed him outside of England selection under the current overseas policy.

Against that backdrop, speculation emerged over a potential international switch, with Mercer confirming he did hold informal talks with All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson about the possibility.

However, the move never progressed beyond early conversations, with family considerations proving decisive.

“I think it was a conversation when Razor was in charge but I’ve got to put my kids first and to move my family to New Zealand isn’t the right thing for what they need,” Mercer told The Times

“Maybe if I was younger it was something I could have done but, right now I’m settled in Toulon and wanting to play good rugby for them.

“I had Razor as my Barbarians coach, so there was a little back and forth there but nothing that was pursued and I’m happy where I am now.”

Manu Tuilagi (Samoa)
Tuilagi remains one of the headline names. The England centre will become eligible in 2027 after completing the required stand-down period and has not ruled out representing his country of birth.

David Ribbans (South Africa)
The England lock qualifies for the Springboks through birth and could be an option as early as 2025 if he chooses to switch.

Billy Vunipola (Australia or Tonga)
A long-time England No.8, Vunipola has eligibility through both his birthplace (Australia) and Tongan heritage, offering multiple potential pathways.

Mako Vunipola (New Zealand or Tonga)
The experienced prop was born in New Zealand and is also eligible for Tonga, making him another intriguing candidate.

Hoskins Sotutu (England)
The Blues back-rower qualifies for England through family and has been linked with a potential switch despite All Blacks involvement.

Nepo Laulala (Samoa)
The 50-cap All Black tighthead becomes eligible in late 2026. Born in Samoa, he would add significant experience and power to their pack.

Shannon Frizell (Tonga)
A destructive loose forward, Frizell qualifies for Tonga and could be a major addition ahead of the tournament.

Akira Ioane (Samoa)
Still in his prime, Ioane has long been linked with Samoa and could be one of the most impactful potential switches.

Folau Fakatava (Tonga)
The exciting scrum-half is eligible for Tonga and could take on a leading role internationally if he opts to switch.

Ngani Laumape (Tonga)
Laumape has already expressed interest in representing Tonga and has been eligible since 2024.

Julian Savea (Samoa)
The All Blacks great is already eligible for Samoa and could still offer experience and finishing power.

Tyrone Green (England)
The South African-born back is on track to qualify for England through residency in 2026.

Lalakai Foketi (New Zealand)
The Australia international qualifies for New Zealand and could make a switch if opportunities arise.

Benhard Janse van Rensburg (England)
Another South African-born player impressing in England, he is eligible through residency and pushing for higher honours.

Dan Kelly (Ireland)
Already qualified via grandparents, Kelly could complete a switch from England to Ireland after his move to Munster.

Rhyno Smith (Italy)
The South African-born back has been linked with Italy, although his switch may depend on approval conditions.

Alex Lozowski (Italy)
The ex-England back qualifies for Italy through ancestry and could make an immediate impact if selected.