Saracens enter race to sign Springboks fly-half Hendrikse as French clubs circle

Saracens have joined the chase for Sharks and Springboks fly-half Jordan Hendrikse, entering a cross-channel battle with at least three Top 14 clubs for the 25-year-old’s signature ahead of next season.

The Premiership club is searching for a long-term replacement for Owen Farrell, who turns 36 at the start of next campaign and is approaching the end of his career. Saracens are also set to lose Scotland international Fergus Burke, who is out of contract at the end of the season and attracting interest from Edinburgh and Newcastle Red Bulls.

Hendrikse made his Lions debut at 19 and was nominated for both the Junior Springbok Player of the Year and SA Young Player of the Year awards in his debut season in 2021. The younger brother of fellow Springbok Jaden, he has also featured at full-back and inside centre during a career that has seen him move to the Sharks three seasons ago.

On the Top 14 side, Lyon, Stade Français and Montpellier have all registered interest. Lyon, who face the Sharks in the Challenge Cup, are considered one of the clubs most likely to complicate Saracens head coach Brendan Venter’s pursuit. Stade Français and Montpellier have asked for updates on Hendrikse’s career plans.

Hendrikse returned from a hamstring injury sustained against Cardiff in March to make his first appearance of the season in the Sharks’ 40-33 Challenge Cup win over Lyon on Sunday, landing five conversions. Sharks head coach JP Pietersen welcomed the return but played down any pressure on the fly-half.

“It’s good to have Jordan back. He struggled with a hammy, but he looks in good nick now, the body is all good, and he’s part of an exciting backline,” Pietersen said. “Hopefully he and a few experienced campaigners can unleash the backs. We’re happy to have Jordan back, but there’s no pressure on him. We just want him to get some game fitness in and get through the match.”

Hendrikse earned his last two Springbok caps in a win over Wales in November 2024, and his versatility and international pedigree are understood to be key factors driving the level of European interest in his services.