RUMOUR | Premiership side target departing Wasps hooker Ashley Johnson

Thursday, 11 June 2020 at 10:09

bySteven Smith

Ashley Johnson could be on his way to Gallagher Premiership side Sale Sharks, according to ruck sources.

The South African-born hooker, who has also been linked with a return home, is a free agent after failing to agree a new deal with Wasps.

Johnson, who can also play in the back-row, joined Wasps in 2012. Since then he has become one of the side’s most experienced players, with almost 200 appearances under his belt and having captained the Club on a number of occasions.

All things considered, the 33-year-old would be a perfect replacement for Rob Webber, who is retiring to take up a coaching role with Championship side Jersey.

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Wasps transfers | 4 wingers they should target to sign

1. D.T.H van der Merwe

Glasgow Warriors' record try-scorer is to leave the club at the end of the current season. The 34-year-old has scored 54 tries in 123 appearances for the club over eight seasons.

If Wasps could sign the Canada international, who has already confirmed 'he'd like to play on for a few more years', he'd certainly guarantee tries.

2. Joe Tomane

If Wasps are looking for an experienced head to help bring on some of their young wide-men then Tomane is an obvious choice. The Wallaby, who is out of contract with Leinster in the summer, has been consistently brilliant for the Irish province and there will be no shortage of interest in securing the 30-year-old's services.

Wasps should be at the front of that queue.

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3. Marland Yarde

He's still set to be a free agent in the summer with no confirmation, despite reports, that the speedster has signed a new deal with Sale Sharks. If Wasps can get him in, the dynamic 27-year-old would add some extra quality to their backline as long as he remains fit.

Absolutely a player to consider.

4. Dane Haylett-Petty

The 33-cap Wallaby is an international superstar who is available for Wasps to go sign on a short-term deal as soon as this is over.

This is due to Haylett-Petty, who was forced to take a huge paycut, being given the green light to take a leave of absence from Super Rugby and secure short term contracts in places such as England and the Japanese Top League before returning in time for the July 2021 Test schedule.

Would be an incredible signing.