Harlequins fly-half and England prospect Marcus Smith is reportedly being lined-up for a shock move to the Top 14.
According to Midi Olympique, Lyon have made him their top target to replace in 2021 when Jonathan Wisniewski’s contract at Stade de Gerland expires.
Despite being linked with the likes of Johnny Sexton , Beauden Barrett or Danny Cipriani, they’ve changed their approach and will now look to recruit talented youngsters.
Smith became the second-youngest Premiership debutant in history, behind George Ford, when making his Harlequins bow against London Irish aged 18 years and 200 days in September 2017.
He was named as an apprentice in the England party for the Old Mutual Wealth series that autumn and continued in that role during the 2018 NatWest 6 Nations.
He featured for the England XV side that beat the Barbarians 51-43 at Twickenham in May 2019, scoring 26 of those points in a stand-out performance.
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5 wonderkids who could star for England at 2023 Rugby World Cup
Here are five players who could potentially break into the England set-up…
1. Josh Hodge
- Current number of caps: 0
- Position: Fullback
- Age at the start of RWC 2023: 23
One of England’s most exciting upcoming talents, the fullback is built in the same mould as All Black Damian Mckenzie. Safe under the high ball and blessed with incredible pace, expect him to play a key role f=or Newcastle Falcons on their return to the Premiership. Hopefully he’ll then be in a place to make a bid for international honours.