Wasps have been very active in the transfer market this summer.

After already signing 13 players this summer, it appears that Wasps may not yet be finished adding players to their squad ahead of the new season.

Although Dai Young secured the services of quality backs such as Danny Cipriani, Kurtley Beale and Willie le Roux, they have so far been unable to sign an openside, despite being linked with moves for David Pocock and Steffon Armitage.

Indeed, with James Haskell currently out injured, Wasps’ backrow looks a little unbalanced. Although Thomas Young and Guy Thompson have stood in for Haskell in the past, Dai Young’s side will be expected to challenge Saracens in both the Premiership and Champions Cup this season.

Consequently, it wasn’t at all surprising to see The Telegraph link Wasps with a move for Edinburgh’s John Hardie this morning.

Although Hardie wouldn’t offer the same type of physicality or ball carrying ability as Haskell, the former Highlanders player is strong at the breakdown, and formed a dynamic partnership alongside John Barclay in the Scottish backrow.

Nevertheless, if Wasps want to sign the New Zealand born player immediately, they will first have to buy out the final year Hardie’s contract with Edinburgh.

This of course creates extra complications, but is not unprecedented after Bath secured the services of Dave Denton in a similar manner last season.

Alan Drumm, Pundit Arena

 

Read More About: All Blacks, dai young, danny cipriani, David Denton, david pocock, Edinburgh rugby, Guy Thompson, highlanders, James Haskell, john hardie, kurtley beale, new zealand, Steffon Armitage, Thomas Young, Wasps, willie le roux