With their contracts set to expire at the season’s end, England wingers Ollie Sleightholme and Tom Roebuck have become two of the most sought-after names in Premiership Rugby.
According to Rugby Pass, both wingers are drawing serious interest from a string of rival clubs, including heavyweights like Saracens, Harlequins, Bath, Exeter Chiefs, and Gloucester.
Here’s everything you need to know about the talents these clubs are battling for.
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Ollie Sleightholme: The Hometown Hero Who’s Gone Global
After helping his childhood club, the Northampton Saints, lift the Premiership trophy last season, Sleightholme earned his England debut with two caps against New Zealand in the summer series. Known for his blistering pace and try-scoring flair, the Saints’ star has quickly carved out a reputation as one of England’s most electric finishers.
But with Northampton scrambling to hold onto their prized winger, rival clubs are watching closely, ready to pounce if contract talks with the Saints hit a snag.
Ollie is no longer just a Northampton name—he’s a Premiership powerhouse wanted across the league!
Tom Roebuck: From Chester RFC to England’s Rising Star
Inverness-born and Chester-raised, Tom Roebuck’s rise in rugby reads like a fairytale. Starting at Chester RFC at just five years old, Roebuck joined Sale Sharks’ academy and made his senior debut in 2018. But it was the 2021/22 season where he truly took off, scoring six tries in six games, securing his spot in Sale’s squad.
Roebuck’s international journey began early, donning the red rose at 16 and representing England’s U17s, U18s, and U20s. Fast-forward to 2024, Roebuck’s hard work earned him a spot in Steve Borthwick’s squad for the Summer Series in Japan and New Zealand, along with a Six Nations call-up.
Now, with Roebuck’s contract up, multiple clubs are poised to compete for his signature, waiting to see if Sale can secure the young winger for the long term.
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Nigel Owens selects his all-time rugby dream team
Fullback: Israel Folau (Australia)
Owens said: “For me, it’s nip and tuck between Halfpenny and Folau, next to nothing to choose between them. Leigh is brilliant because under the high ball and with his kicking at goal under pressure. He may not always break the line when running but puts his body on the line in defence and is a top-notch match-winner.
“But I go for Folau – only just, I should stress – because of his ability to seemingly beat his man every time he gets the ball in his hand. He’s such an exciting player and like Leigh he is one of the best under the high ball.
“It’s a toss of a coin for me… and it’s come down in Folau’s favour.”
Winger: Stuart Hogg (Scotland)
Owens said: “How can you fail to be impressed when watching Hogg play. He’s so exciting as he burst into that line and, of course, was named Six Nations player of the tournament.
“I know he’s a full-back for Scotland, but he is so quick and direct he could easily play on the wing. He reminds me a bit of Shane Williams with some of the things he does.
“When you see who is on the other wing in my team, you’ll see how they would work brilliantly in tandem.”
Outside-centre: Brian O’Driscoll (Ireland)
Owens said: “Not only is he one of the greatest centres in the history of rugby union but he’s a fantastic man off the field as well. O’Driscoll has been a wonderful ambassador for the sport and a real leader. He always respected referees and set the right example for others to follow.
“A legend of the game who conducted himself superbly, on and off the pitch.”
Inside-centre: Ma’a Nonu (New Zealand)
Owens said: “He’s another brilliant player and after every game, win or lose, he would come up and give me a hug. Ma’a has always found time at after-match functions or at breakfast if we’ve been staying at the same hotel to come over and have a chat.
“What a player, mind, too. One of the stalwarts of the New Zealand side for so many years.”
Winger: Shane Williams (Wales)
Owens said: “When people ask me who is the best player I have refereed it’s pretty much an impossible task to pick one because I’ve been lucky enough to take charge of so many greats.
“But if I’m pushed, I would pick Shane for what he achieved after coming from football at 17 or 18 years of age.
“He was in the mould of Gerald Davies in how he left defenders gasping for air as he beat them with those dazzling sidesteps. Nobody would fancy defending against a back three of Shane, Hogg and Folau, I can tell you that.”
