LIST | 5 England stars linked with shock overseas moves in 2021

Players who are out of contract with their current clubs this summer, from the 1st January, can begin negotiating with potential future employers.

Here are five players who may make shock moves abroad in 2021:

The black, blue and whites will be desperate to hold onto the versatile speedster, but the French press suggests that he could be joining Racing 92 ahead of the 2021/22 season. Other players out of contract at the Rec, but likely to stay in the Premiership, includes Joe Cokanasiga and Jonathan Joseph.

Reports in New Zealand suggest the Wasps flanker could return to the Southern Hemisphere, where the 29-year-old would rejoin the Hurricanes. The influential back-rower made his Super Rugby debut for the Wellington-based franchise in 2012 reached the 100-game mark at the end of the 2017 campaign.

The powerhouse is almost certain to depart the AJ Bell Stadium in 2021 when his contract expires. The 29-year-old, who moved to the North West following his dramatic exit from Leicester Tigers, is reportedly being lined up to join Racing 92 in the TOP14 ahead of the 2021/22 season.

It is understood that Ashton will stay at the Twickenham Stoop at least until the end of the season after joining from Sale, giving him a chance of nearing his goal of 100 Premiership tries. He currently boasts 86 after spells at Northampton Saints, Saracens and Sale. After that, he will reportedly head to Japan.

The playmaker has been a free agent following his shock exit from Gloucester last month. Previously linked with a big-money move to Japan, Cipriani is also reportedly of interest to Top 14 side Lyon, who are hunting for high-quality fly-half. Bath, Newcastle and Sale Sharks are all also appear in the hunt to sign the 33-year-old.