Transfer News: Saracens sign South African prop following collapse of another deal

Weilbach arrives as a front-row reinforcement after the club’s previously agreed deal for tighthead Jermaine Ainsley fell through.

The former Australia international had been due to join Saracens ahead of the 2026–27 season, but his move was cancelled following a serious back injury and his subsequent return to the Southern Hemisphere for personal reasons after his contract with Lyon was terminated.

The 30-year-old Ainsley will therefore not link up with the north London club as planned.

Weilbach, 24, developed through Western Province before progressing to the DHL Stormers, where he moved into the senior professional game in 2024 and was involved in United Rugby Championship and European campaigns.

He also made an appearance in the Champions Cup against Harlequins in late 2024, though opportunities at senior level have been limited.

He joined the Lions on a short-term deal after the suspension of Springbok tighthead Asenathi Ntlabakanye following a doping case that resulted in an 18-month ban.

At international age-grade level, Weilbach was part of the South Africa Under-20 setup from 2021 and went on to earn four caps for the Junior Springboks between 2022 and 2023, all in the U20 Summer Series, contributing to an unbeaten record in those matches.

Having previously been described as an old-school tighthead prop for his scrummaging strength and technical foundation, he will add valuable depth to Sarries' pack.