Bayonne Targets All Black Luke Jacobson to Strengthen Pack
Aviron Bayonne is targeting roster additions across its forward pack ahead of the 2026-2027 season, focusing on the back row and hooker positions while evaluating potential overseas signings and domestic talent. rugbyrama.fr reported that the Basque club faces roughly fifteen expiring contracts as recruitment chiefs work to reshape the squad.
Targeting Back-Row Depth in Top 14
Recruiters are zeroing in on domestic and international loose forwards. The club holds an interest in Racing 92 third-rower Maxime Baudonne, who is currently playing in the final year of his contract, according to rugbyrama.fr. Toulouse back-rower Mathis Castro-Ferreira has also emerged as a target, with a potential release considered despite a contract running through 2028. Beyond domestic targets, the club is tracking All Blacks back-rower Luke Jacobson, whose profile has circulated actively across the Top 14. The 29-year-old Chiefs loose forward, standing at 1.91 meters and weighing 107 kilograms with 30 international caps, started the first three matches of the recent series against South Africa.
Bayonne Scouts Pro D2 to Bolster Hooker Options
The front row requires similar attention as Lucas Martin remains the only hooker under contract beyond June 30, 2027, following the activation of an option extending his stay to June 30, 2028. Facundo Bosch approaches the conclusion of his current deal and is expected to depart. Guillaume Cramont, currently on loan from Toulouse, is the subject of ongoing discussions aimed at securing a new loan arrangement before the end of the year. To bolster the position further, Bayonne is scouting Pro D2, identifying Soyaux-Angoulême’s Mamoudou Meïté as a candidate following his development over the past season, though La Rochelle and Perpignan have also made inquiries.
Bayonne continues preparations for the upcoming roster cycle as expiring contracts approach their final months.
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