Sale Sharks secure Joe Marchant on long-term deal

Sale Sharks have confirmed the signing of England international Joe Marchant on a long-term contract beginning with the 2026/27 season.

The 29-year-old will return to the Premiership after his successful stint in France.

Marchant, who made over 150 appearances for Harlequins and played a key role in their 2021 Premiership title win, left England after the 2023 Rugby World Cup to join Stade Francais.

He has since become an important figure for the Paris club, making more than 50 appearances as they challenge near the top of the Top 14 table.

Marchant made his England debut in 2019 and has accumulated 26 caps. His move back to England restores his eligibility for international selection, putting him back in contention for Steve Borthwick’s future squads.

He said the Sharks’ ambitions, outlined by Director of Rugby Alex Sanderson, played a major role in his decision. He highlighted Sale’s competitive squad and the opportunity to reunite with former England teammates.

“When I spoke to Alex Sanderson he explained the direction he wants to take the club and the ambition he has. It’s a club that wants to win trophies and I’d love to be a part of that.

“Sale have always been a tough team to play against, so I’m really looking forward being a part of that next season.

“There are a lot of lads at the club who I’ve played and trained with for England and it’ll be great to play with them again. They have some of the best players in the country and I can’t wait to play with them.

“I’d love to get back in the mix for England but I know that first I have to get back into the flow of the Prem and put in some good performances for Sale.”