flag
back Back
Leicester Tigers in talks over move for PREM Rugby rival’s player
Leicester Tigers

Gloucester hooker Seb Blake has attracted interest from PREM Rugby rivals Leicester Tigers as they look to strengthen their options at hooker.

RUCK understands that Mail Sport's report last week linking Blake with a move to Leicester is accurate, with Tigers now in talks over a potential deal.

The 25-year-old impressed in his first PREM Rugby start of the season as Gloucester beat Bath 23-5 at Kingsholm. The victory kept the Cherry and Whites top of the table after five rounds.

With his contract due to expire at the end of the season, the hooker is now weighing up his future.

Leicester are currently leading the race for his signature as they look to bring in a permanent partner for Jamie Blamire.

Tigers have been hit by a series of injuries in the position and are keen to recruit an established PREM player to improve their depth.

Behind Blamire, Leicester lack an established second choice.

Jack Doorey-Palmer and Charlie Clare have both spent the start of the season sidelined through injury, while Finn Theobald-Thomas announced his retirement just a few weeks ago.

Richie Asiata and Sam Moli have both been brought in to help cover the position, but neither appears to be viewed as a long-term solution at Mattioli Woods Welford Road.

Blake would offer Leicester a combination of experience and potential.

He made 12 PREM appearances for Gloucester last season and has already established himself as a capable option in the English top flight.

He helped the club win the 2024 Premiership Rugby Cup and reach the Challenge Cup final, scoring in victories over Ospreys and Benetton along the way.

After starting every league game during the 2024/25 season, Blake signed a new contract with Gloucester. However, Dewi Lake's arrival could now open the door to a fresh challenge elsewhere.

A powerful front-rower with reliable lineout throwing and good mobility, Blake could prove a smart addition for Leicester if they can secure his signature.

There could also be an opportunity for him to push towards international rugby in the coming years.

With Luke Cowan-Dickie and Jamie George moving further into their careers, England's hooker position could offer opportunities after the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

A move to Leicester would give Blake the chance to compete for regular first-team rugby while strengthening his case for a place in England's future plans.

Pick Your England XV for the Nations Championship

Steve Borthwick faces some huge selection calls ahead of the Nations Championship. But who would make your starting XV?

Who gets the nod at fly-half? Who starts in the back row? And which big names miss out?

Have your say: Select your starting XV and see how your picks compare with thousands of other England fans.

You may like

Cardiff commuters hear huge noise from Principality Stadium as epic moment unfolds

Wales Online 10 hours ago

"Sheer arrogance" - Fans react as England international makes costly error

ruck.co.uk 1 day ago

Lions lock Hyron Andrews dies at team hotel before Champions Cup game against La Rochelle

The Guardian 1 week ago

Leicester outplay PREM champs as Bristol see off Exeter

rugby365.com 2 days ago

Kevin Sinfield's heartfelt tribute to wife Jayne

ruck.co.uk 1 hour ago

Fissler Confidential: Leicester Tigers sniffing around PREM rival's England star

rugbypass.com 2 days ago

CONFIRMED: Steve Borthwick names England squad for Nations Championship

ruck.co.uk 1 day ago

Rugby transfers: England star decides on Leicester Tigers future, Wallabies flanker joins Clermon...

planetrugby.com 2 days ago