All Blacks flanker Luke Jacobson is attracting growing interest from several Top 14 clubs, with Bayonne emerging as the early frontrunners for his signature.
According to Midi Olympique, Jacobson’s CV is already circulating heavily among clubs in France, with Bayonne currently showing the strongest interest.
The Basque club is preparing for a busy period in the transfer market, with around 15 players approaching the end of their contracts. Strengthening the forward pack is one of their main priorities.
Bayonne have already been linked with French flankers Maxime Baudonne and Mathis Castro-Ferreira, but landing Jacobson would represent a significantly bigger statement of intent.
The 29-year-old remains an important part of New Zealand’s plans, though, having started the first three Tests against South Africa this summer in the Rugby's Greatest Rivalry tour.
His performances have continued to earn the confidence of head coach Dave Rennie with the 2027 Rugby World Cup now less than a year away.
Jacobson is contracted to both the Chiefs and New Zealand Rugby until 2027. A move to France would therefore come with a major decision attached, as leaving New Zealand could put his international career at risk.
For now, it remains unclear whether Jacobson is open to the possibility of moving overseas.
He may prefer to remain in New Zealand and continue pushing for a place in the All Blacks squad for the World Cup.
Born in Cambridge, Waikato, Jacobson has spent his entire professional career playing in his home region.
A move to France would offer a completely different challenge, but there is little indication yet that he is actively seeking a change.
Since making his All Blacks debut in 2019, Jacobson has established himself as a reliable option in New Zealand’s loose forward ranks.
An injury ruled him out of the 2020 international season, but he returned to the national side the following year.
His versatility, leadership and physical approach have since made him an important figure in the All Blacks squad, and his availability would make him an attractive target for any Top 14 side.
