According to reports, the club have identified three possible playmakers who could replace Ford when he leaves the club next summer.
#1.Handre Pollard
Age: 27
Honours: South Africa, 57 caps
Current club: Montpellier
Chance of signing: 2/5
The big-money option. Pollard's world-record contract of £1m per season at Montpellier expires this summer, and he may be tempted by a move to Welford Road if Tigers comes close to matching Ford's current deal, which is approximately £680,000 per season.
Reports of the Bok rocking up at Welford Road intensified today after the Springbok playmaker followed the Tigers on Instagram.
#2. Johnny Sexton
Age: 36
Honours: Ireland & Lions, 101 and 6 caps
Current club: Leinster
Chance of signing: 3/5
The fly-half signed a one-year contract extension with the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) back in March, meaning he will be available next summer. Having already hinted he may retire from International rugby in 2022, the Ireland captain, who has won 101 caps for his country, would be an incredible replace for Ford if Tiger cans tempt him. Probably the most consistent number 10 of the last 10 years.
#3.Alex Lozowski
Age: 28
Honours: England, 5 caps
Current club: Saracens
Chance of signing: 4/5
England international Lozowski wants to play regularly at fly-half in the Gallagher Premiership, which is something that seems unlikely if he stays at Saracens due to the large shadow cast by England captain Owen Farrell. The 28-year-old, who impressed playing number 10 for Montpellier in the Top 14 last season, is also out of contract this summer after last signing a two-year extension in the summer of 2020.