Mercer set for Cherry & Whites?

ZACH Mercer is heading to Gloucester Rugby on a long-term contract – according to the latest reports in France.

Earlier this month, rumours of the number eight returning to the Gallagher Premiership with the Cherry & Whites circulated, with the former Bath man linked with a move to his old club’s fiercest rivals for the 2023/24 season.

Midi Libre, the French newspaper that covers Montpellier – the club Mercer has become the star of in the last 14 months since leaving Bath – has reported the explosive and elusive number eight will sign a three or four-year deal to join Gloucester next June and become available for England World Cup selection.

The Midi Libre report reads: “The rumour had been circulating for several weeks and has now found a concrete echo.

“Zach Mercer, Top 14 superstar last season, will leave Montpellier at the end of his contract next June to join Gloucester.

“According to our information, a long-term contract has been put on the table (three or four years).”