Joe Marchant will exit his contract early to return to England

Thursday, 19 June 2025 at 18:41

byRugby Rucker

They’ve gone from teenage sweethearts to one of England rugby’s power couples.

Sale Sharks are lining up a sensational move to bring England international Joe Marchant back to the Premiership next season.

Join RUCK’s Instagram broadcast channel and get the latest rugby news straight to your phone.

, the 28-year-old centre is on Sale’s radar as part of a trio of planned signings, despite having another year to run on his deal with Stade Français.

RugbyPass

Marchant joined the French side after the 2023 Rugby World Cup and quickly became a key figure, scoring six tries in 26 appearances as Paul Gustard’s men narrowly avoided relegation.

A return to England would put Marchant back in the frame for Test selection, with Steve Borthwick still short of natural outside centre options who combine pace and power like the former Harlequins star.

Stade are already preparing for life after Marchant, lining up former France U20 and Clermont centre Tani Vili as his replacement. Vili, 24, made 14 appearances and scored two tries for Vannes last season but couldn’t prevent their drop from the Top 14.

Marchant made over 150 appearances for Harlequins and played a starring role in their dramatic 2021 Premiership final win over Exeter Chiefs. He’s long been admired across the league — with Saracens previously linked — and now looks set for another big move.

There’s also talk of Newcastle Falcons, now under Red Bull ownership, preparing a marquee offer to tempt him north. Off the pitch, Marchant is engaged to Hollie Shearer — daughter of footballing legend Alan Shearer — adding to his star profile.

One to watch.

Meet the rugby WAGS of the English Lions ahead of Australia tour

From sun-soaked selfies to emotional sideline cheers, these stunning partners are set to be front and centre throughout the campaign, making headlines of their own.

Here’s a look at the women who’ll be backing the boys — and turning heads — every step of the way..

Beth Dolling – Singer, Model, and Marcus’s No.1 Fan (Marcus Smith)

Fly-half Marcus Smith is dating Beth Dolling, a 25-year-old singer and model who’s worked with major brands like PrettyLittleThing and built up a sizeable social following.

She’s often snapped in glammed-up couples’ pics with Marcus, and one heartfelt post said it all: “No matter what, watching you do what you love doing makes me so proud.”

They’ve been Instagram official since June 2021, and with Beth’s fashion flair, expect some serious style moments down under.

Mimi Fall – The new Mrs Itoje (Maro Itoje)

The Lions captain has officially hung up his bachelor boots after tying the knot with long-time partner Mimi Fall – just weeks before the tour kicks off.

The towering second-row proposed during a sun-soaked getaway to Nigeria and Ghana in August 2024, popping the question at a dreamy waterside resort in Ada, just outside Accra. “It was a beautiful resort,” Maro told the Daily Mail. “I popped the question there.” Job done.

Mimi confirmed the engagement with a sparkling Instagram reveal, flashing the rock and writing: "Mrs I to be." Cue the collective swoon.

Fast forward to May 25, and the couple sealed the deal with a stylish ceremony in London’s swanky Mayfair. The snaps say it all – pure class, serious suits, and big smiles all round.

Sharing the news online, Maro wrote:
"Scripture says it is not good for man to be alone… I am no longer alone. I HAVE A WIFE. To God be the Glory!!!!"

Ashleigh Inwood – Five Years Strong with Freeman (Tommy Freeman)

Northampton flier Tommy Freeman has been dating Ashleigh Inwood for over five years. They now share a home near Northampton and a future that looks just as promising as Tommy’s England career.

Freeman recently posted a loved-up tribute: “Five years. Forever grateful for your support.”
But don’t worry — there’s still room in his heart for Fin Smith. Tommy joked to MailOnline: “Our girlfriends aren’t happy because they think we like each other more than them!”

Meg - Keeps herself out of the spotlight (Ellis Genge)

Fellow England vice-captain Ellis Genge is in a relationship with his partner Meg. The blonde beauty often stays out of the spotlight, so not much is known about her, however, the pair share two sons, who Ellis absolutely dotes on.

Nancy Neath – Design Star with an Eye for Decor (Will Stuart)

Prop Will Stuart’s girlfriend Nancy Neath is a creative talent in her own right, running a successful table and floral design business that’s got serious aesthetic game.

The couple moved in together in 2023, though not without hiccups. Will revealed: “My girlfriend chose a new mattress — it’s too soft. I’ve ended up on the floor a few times tucked in a duvet.” Rugby tackles are rough, but love is tougher.

Gracie Hand - The long-term couple (Fin Smith)

Student Gracie tends to keep her private life low-key, but Fin posts adorable selfies of them together, sharing glimpses of their relationship with his followers.

Michelle Daly – From School Romance to Family Life (Elliot Daly)

Elliot Daly married longtime love Michelle in 2021 after years together and one perfectly timed proposal. The pair have now welcomed a daughter, Orla, born in July 2024.

Elliot summed it up sweetly on their anniversary: “One month ago today, I got to marry my soulmate. 10 years of knowing each other, 4 years engaged, and now finally married. My Wife.”

"Live up to the Badge" - Maro Itoje wants his Lions to carry the weight of the jersey for Argentina clash

Dan Carter reveals the one Springbok star that scared him during his career