Sale Sharks sign Jacques Vermeulen

Sale Sharks have agreed a deal to sign versatile Exeter forward Jacques Vermeulen on a two-year deal from the start of the 2025/26 season.

The 30-year-old South African, who is equally happy at lock or in the back-row, will join Alex Sanderson’s squad after spending six years at Sandy Park.

Jacques joined Exeter from the Durban-based Sharks ahead of the 2019/20 campaign and has gone on to make more than 100 appearances.

Standing at 6’6”, Paarl-born Jacques is known for his work-rate around the park, his aggressive defence and his eye for the try line.

Jacques said: “I’m absolutely thrilled to be joining Sale Sharks. I’ve heard nothing but great things about the club’s structure and incredible fan base, and I can’t wait to be a part of it.

“I already have some good friends in the squad, which will make the transition even smoother, and I truly believe this team has the talent and ambition to achieve big things.

“I’m excited to contribute and give my all for the club, and I can’t wait to get started. Sale Sharks are a very physical outfit and that suits my style of play.”

Sharks Director of Rugby Alex Sanderson said: “Jacques has been one of the most consistent performers in his position in the league ever since he arrived at Exeter.

“His enthusiasm is infectious and he’s always been a nightmare to play against and someone we’ve had to target. He’s one of those players you want on your team because of his unparalleled, unrelenting physicality and work-rate.

“He’s a real enforcer, his ability to repeat physical actions is second to none and he’ll complement what we’ve already got. He can play anywhere across the back-five and but I think there’s more to come from him and that’s really exciting.

“He already has plenty of good mates here, so I have no doubt he’ll fit right in. We’re all buzzing to get him here.”