12 rugby superstars out of contract in 2027 – including Eben Etzebeth

Tuesday, 15 September 2026 at 10:36

bySteven Smith

World Cup winners, British & Irish Lions and some of rugby’s biggest stars have contracts scheduled to expire in 2027.

With the World Cup in Australia approaching, clubs face major decisions over who to retain — and rival teams will be watching closely.

Some agreements expire after the 2026/27 season, while others run through the World Cup. Renewals could change the picture, with RUCK understanding one England sensation has already agreed fresh terms.

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1. Ardie Savea — Moana Pasifika / New Zealand Rugby

Savea would be a blockbuster signing for almost any club in world rugby.

The All Blacks star committed to New Zealand Rugby through 2027, leaving his future beyond the World Cup as a major talking point.

His power, breakdown work and attacking influence would make him a huge target should he consider another overseas chapter.

2. Eben Etzebeth — Sharks

The Springbok enforcer signed a deal running until 2027 when he joined the Sharks.

A double World Cup winner, Etzebeth remains one of rugby’s most recognisable forwards.

His next decision could involve continuing his career in South Africa or exploring another opportunity abroad.

3. Will Jordan — Crusaders / New Zealand Rugby

Jordan’s announced contract takes him through the end of the 2027 World Cup cycle.

The prolific All Blacks back would bring exceptional finishing ability to any side.

New Zealand will be eager to retain him beyond Australia, but his future will attract attention until fresh terms are confirmed.

4. Henry Pollock — Northampton Saints

Pollock makes the list because his current officially announced deal expires in 2027.

However, RUCK understands the England and British & Irish Lions flanker has agreed an extension until 2029, with official confirmation still awaited.

That would be a major boost for Northampton, securing one of English rugby’s most exciting young players.

5. Tom Curry — Sale Sharks

Curry’s reported contract runs until 2027, but Sale are already working to keep him.

As RUCK recently reported, Alex Sanderson has confirmed talks over retaining the England flanker beyond the World Cup.

His defensive work, breakdown quality and experience make him a key figure in Sale’s plans.

6. Richie Mo’unga — Crusaders / New Zealand Rugby

Mo’unga’s return agreement with New Zealand Rugby runs through 2027.

The fly-half’s next decision will therefore become another major storyline around the World Cup.

Having enjoyed success with the Crusaders and in Japan, he would offer interested clubs an experienced playmaker with a proven winning record.

7. Caelan Doris — Leinster / IRFU

Doris signed a three-year IRFU extension taking him to 2027.

The Ireland back-rower would be among the most valuable players on the market, although an expiring contract does not mean he intends to leave Leinster.

Securing his future will be a major priority for club and country.

8. Rieko Ioane — Blues / New Zealand Rugby

Ioane’s announced New Zealand Rugby agreement runs until the end of 2027.

Capable of covering centre and wing, the All Blacks star combines pace with extensive international experience.

His next deal could determine whether he remains in New Zealand or pursues a longer overseas challenge.

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9. Duhan van der Merwe — Edinburgh

Van der Merwe’s reported Edinburgh deal takes him through the 2027 World Cup.

The Scotland winger’s power and ability to create tries from seemingly harmless situations would make him an attractive signing.

Edinburgh will be keen to retain a player capable of changing a match with one carry.

10. Tadhg Beirne — Munster / IRFU

Beirne’s extension runs through the 2027 World Cup.

The versatile forward offers lineout quality, breakdown turnovers and leadership, making him an important figure for Munster and Ireland.

His next decision will be particularly interesting as he approaches the later stages of his career.

11. Beauden Barrett — Blues

Beauden Barrett’s contract with the Blues and New Zealand Rugby runs until the end of 2027, keeping him committed through the Rugby World Cup.

The two-time World Rugby Player of the Year has previously enjoyed spells in Japan with Suntory Sungoliath and Toyota Verblitz. His future beyond the tournament could therefore become a major talking point, although his current deal expires later than the European summer window.

12. Malcolm Marx — Kubota Spears

Malcolm Marx is reportedly contracted to Kubota Spears until June 2027, putting the Springboks hooker among the biggest names whose deals expire next summer.

The double World Cup winner extended his stay with the Japanese club in 2025. His scrummaging, finishing and exceptional work at the breakdown would make him a prized signing should he become available, but an expiring contract does not mean he has decided to leave.