Sale Sharks set to sign New Zealand scrum-half as Raffi Quirke replacement

England international Quirke is joining Newcastle Red Bulls at the end of the season, bringing to a close his time at the club where he progressed through the academy ranks and represents his hometown side.

Concerns had been growing over who would step into his role, particularly given the limited availability of scrum-halves on the market and uncertainty over whether current backup Gus Warr is ready to take on a leading role.

Earlier links had suggested a potential return for Faf de Klerk to the Corpacq Stadium before his move to the Cheetahs, while former on-loan Shark Embrose Papier was also mentioned as an option, though a deal would have required him to be released from his Bulls contract.

However, Mail Online report that Chiefs scrum-half Xavier Roe has agreed terms to move from New Zealand as Quirke’s replacement.

Roe represented a New Zealand XV last year, starting against the Barbarians, but has yet to break into the top tier of All Blacks contention, with Cam Roigard and Cortez Ratima currently ahead in the pecking order.

He also featured for the New Zealand U20s and is now 27, entering the peak years of his career, having made five starts in Super Rugby this season for the Chiefs.

Sale boss Alex Sanderson has been heavily active in the transfer market following a disappointing domestic season, bringing in players such as Courtney Lawes, Joe Marchant, Alex Lozowski and Nicky Smith for next year.

Roe would add to a growing contingent of recruits from Super Rugby, alongside Fijian signings Elia Canakaivata and Ponepati Loganimasi.

With little left to play for after their Champions Cup quarter-final defeat to Leinster last weekend, Sale’s focus is already turning firmly towards next season.