England international rugby player Henry Pollock is nearing the final stages of signing a contract extension with Northampton Saints, while keeping open the possibility of pursuing opportunities abroad or in other sports. The 21-year-old back-row forward, whose current deal with the Saints expires at the end of this season, is reportedly set to agree to a two-year extension at Franklin’s Gardens, with his salary expected to increase significantly from around £140,000 to approximately £400,000 per year starting in the 2027-28 season.

Pollock’s rising profile received a boost earlier this year when he became the first rugby union player to join Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom stable. Hearn, a prominent sports promoter known for his work in boxing and mixed martial arts, suggested that Pollock should be worth around £1 million annually, a figure that far exceeds his current or proposed club salary. Pollock has downplayed any pressure from this valuation, describing Hearn’s promotion as part of his role and emphasizing the new opportunities it has opened up for him.

“I’m very open to new opportunities and exploring different avenues,” Pollock said. “I want to live in different countries, try new sports, and see where this journey takes me. Right now, rugby is my main focus, but with the support of my management team, I’m keeping my options open for the future.”

Northampton Saints management and coach Phil Dowson have expressed optimism that Pollock will remain at the club. Dowson highlighted the mutual desire for Pollock to stay and suggested that the ongoing contract discussions were progressing positively. However, there is acknowledgment that moving abroad could affect Pollock’s eligibility for England selection, which remains an important consideration.

Pollock has spent his entire professional career with Northampton and credits the club for his development both on and off the field. “Northampton’s been so great to me. They’ve made me who I am,” he said. “For me to stay here would be really special. But it’s not always straightforward, and that’s why having a strong team around me to navigate these decisions is so important.”

While Pollock’s exact plans beyond the upcoming season remain undecided, his willingness to explore diverse opportunities signals a potentially unconventional trajectory for the young star. With interests spanning from international rugby to other sports and global living experiences, his career path is likely to be one to watch in the coming years.