Gloucester is reportedly eyeing England winger Joe Cokanasiga as a potential successor to Wales’ Louis Rees-Zammit, who is set to become a free agent next summer.
Rees-Zammit, drawing interest from the NFL, has not committed to a new contract with the Cherry and Whites, prompting the club to explore alternative options.
The Rugby Paper suggests that 26-year-old Cokanasiga, originally from Fiji and previously with London Irish before joining Bath, has been associated with a possible move to France.
However, Gloucester may provide him with an opportunity to continue his career in the West Country, according to reports.
Cokanasiga has been unfortunate to suffer two serious injuries since the 2019 Rugby World Cup but he returned against Newcastle Falcons in February 2022 in devastating fashion.
The wing crossed for two tries to help Bath Rugby to their first bonus-point and away win of the 2021/22 campaign.
Born in Fiji, Cokanasiga moved to England ahead of his third birthday and was signed on by the London Irish Academy in 2015, making an impact in the Premiership Rugby Sevens tournament a year later.
He made his senior debut for Irish in the Championship and earned a switch to Bath in 2018. He earned his international debut in the same year, scoring against Japan, and has continued his fine scoring form for Eddie Jones’ side with 11 tries in his first 11 caps.
A strong ball carrier, a powerful runner and evidently a brilliant finisher, Cokanasiga committed his future to Bath Rugby on a long-term deal in 2021.
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The 30 best rugby players in the world have been ranked
#30. Dan Sheehan (Ireland)
A rising Irish hooker known for his powerful scrummaging and dynamic play in open field. Sheehan’s agility and tackling prowess make him a vital asset in set pieces and loose play alike, hinting at a promising future in international rugby
#29. Owen Farrell (England)
England’s steadfast captain and fly-half, Farrell’s tactical brilliance and accurate kicking guide his team’s gameplay. Renowned for his leadership, his defensive grit and ability to control the game’s pace make him a linchpin in England’s rugby strategy.
Wales Online wrote: “The 31-year-old has been in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons recently but is a player you’d rather play with than against. Farrell is a natural leader of men, and will play a crucial role if England are to drag themselves out of the rut they find themselves in.”
#28. Thibaud Flament (France)
A versatile lock for France, Flament’s towering presence in the lineout and ferocious work rate define his style. With his strong carrying and breakdown skills, he is a force to be reckoned with in both set-piece dominance and open-field encounters.
#27. Shannon Frizell (New Zealand)
Frizzell’s imposing physique and aggressive ball-carrying mark him as a formidable All Black flanker. His offloading ability, coupled with his defensive prowess, cements his position as a player who consistently makes his presence felt on the field.
#26. Steven Kitshoff (South Africa)
An anchor of the Springboks’ scrum, Kitshoff’s experience and technical expertise are unmatched. His exceptional work rate and relentless tackling contribute to his reputation as a reliable front-row stalwart, key to South Africa’s forward dominance.