Andrew Sheridan could still move to France despite reports that Toulon are no longer interested in the England prop.
The double Lions tourist is out of contract with current club Sale Sharks at the end of the season and has been heavily linked with a switch to the big-spending Amlin Challenge Cup finalists.
Such a move would see him link up with former Sale boss Philippe Saint Andre, as well as fellow Lion Jonny Wilkinson, but recent speculation suggested that Toulon were no longer so keen on the former Bristol star.
Those rumours have since been rubbished by Sheridan’s agent, who insists Toulon remain one of a number of options for his client.
"I'm surprised to hear that. I've had courteous discussions with Philippe Saint-Andre and given him plenty of time to come back with an answer," 1974 Lions tourist Mike Burton told the Daily Mail.
"But there are other clubs in France who are interested in Andrew."
Sheridan, who toured New Zealand and South Africa with the Lions in 2005 and 2009, is expected to play a big role for England in the 2011 World Cup and beyond and the RFU’s recent directive on selecting players plying their trade overseas could yet see him remain in the Aviva Premiership.
Sale’s decision to sack Mike Brewer and replace him with Sheridan’s former team-mate Pete Anglesea on a temporary basis could also have a positive impact on the chances of Sheridan staying in England.
And while Burton clearly feels Sheridan has numerous options open to him, he hasn’t ruled out the possibility that his man will be at Edgeley Park next term.
"We have to make arrangements by February and there may be a desire to stay there now," added Burton.
