Faf de Klerk's Return to Gallagher Premiership: Sale Sharks Lead the Race | Rugby Transfer News (2026)

Faf de Klerk is considering a return to the Gallagher Premiership for the upcoming season as his contract with the Yokohama Canon Eagles approaches its end, according to reports from Rugby Pass.

At 34 years old, the accomplished Springbok scrum-half has recently resumed pre-season training in Japan, but the possibility of moving back to England remains open. Sources from RUCK suggest that Sale Sharks are currently leading the race to sign him.

Furthermore, Neil Fissler notes that there is also interest from South African teams, with the Sharks keeping a close watch on de Klerk’s situation. The Newcastle Falcons are similarly looking for an experienced No.9 to bolster their squad.

De Klerk launched his professional career with the Lions and later spent five successful seasons with Sale Sharks, where he made over 100 appearances before making the switch to Japan four years ago. He has been a crucial player in Rassie Erasmus' squads that secured back-to-back Rugby World Cup titles. Even now, he stands out as one of the most experienced scrum-halves available in the market.

Faf de Klerk – Player Profile

  • Age: 34
  • Position: Scrum-half
  • Current Club: Yokohama Canon Eagles
  • Former Clubs: Lions, Sale Sharks
  • International Caps: 50+ (South Africa)
  • Honours: Rugby World Cup winner (2019, 2023)

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Faf de Klerk's Return to Gallagher Premiership: Sale Sharks Lead the Race | Rugby Transfer News (2026)
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