Henry Pollock keeping options open amid stalling Northampton contract talks

The 21-year-old No 8, a 13-time England international and British & Irish Lion, spoke candidly about his future after signing with Eddie Hearn's Matchroom Talent Agency earlier this year.

Hearn has publicly valued him as a "seven-figure player" amid negotiations over a new deal at Franklin's Gardens, where his current contract expires at the end of the 2026-27 season.

"I definitely want to go and live in different countries, explore new sports, explore new avenues," Pollock told reporters.

"Eddie and the Matchroom team are constantly messaging me, calling me about different avenues and they've been great with that kind of stuff. I'm not going to say no to any opportunity.

"At the minute rugby is my main priority so I'm focusing on that in the near future, but as I said, you never know what's happening around the corner."

Pollock has embraced Hearn's high-profile approach and the commercial opportunities it brings, insisting the promoter's bold claims create no extra burden.

"I don't see it as pressure. I see it as him doing his job. He's the best sports promoter in the world. The reason he's the best is because he gets his client what he deserves," he added.

"The sport of rugby needs to change and hopefully this is a change."

Despite the openness to wider horizons, Pollock made clear his deep attachment to the club that has shaped him.

"Northampton's been so great to me, I've been here my whole career and they've made me who I am. For me to stay here would be so special," he said.

"Obviously, I know it's not as easy as that and I know there's lots of moving parts that come into play. I'm very open to new opportunities and I'm very open to exploring that.

"I'm so young so I think it's only right that I assess those options and find the best decision for myself."

Saints director of rugby Phil Dowson echoed the complexity of the situation while expressing optimism that a deal can be done.

Reports have suggested Northampton are working towards an improved offer in the region of £400,000-£450,000 a year, well short of Hearn's seven-figure target but a significant rise on Pollock's current estimated £150,000 club salary.

"As you can imagine, it's complex. There's a few moving parts that we need to put together, but I'm hopeful," said Dowson.

"As I said before, he wants to stay and we want to keep him."

Pollock's rise has been rapid. He has become one of English rugby's most marketable young talents, known for his dynamic play, charismatic celebrations and ability to connect with younger fans.

Hearn has repeatedly argued that the sport undervalues stars of his calibre and that elevating Pollock's profile could help unlock rugby's commercial potential.

For now, the England back-rower is keeping his options open while prioritising on-field performance.

Whether that means a long-term stay in Northampton black, green and gold, a lucrative move overseas, or even a future foray into another sport remains to be seen.

What is clear is that Pollock, still only 21, intends to take control of his career and explore every avenue available.