Captain Wentzel leaves relegated Leeds Carnegie with Fourie set to follow

They have also given England flanker Hendre Fourie the opportunity to speak to other clubs after the South African-born star rejected the offer of a new three year contract with the Yorkshire club.

Fourie, 31, is contracted for next season but has asked permission to speak to other clubs in the Aviva Premiership to explore his options for next season.

Any club that wishes to sign Fourie will then have to negotiated a transfer fee with Leeds Carnegie.

Chief executive Gary Hetherington said: “Hendre has always been a tremendous servant to the club and I have no doubt that he would honour his contract with the club if he was to remain at Headingley Carnegie.

“However, it is only fair to offer him the chance to speak to other clubs given his outstanding contribution to the club over the years.

Wentzel signed a new two-year deal with the club five months ago, and he was committed to them for next season despite Leeds’ relegation from the Premiership.

But, after talks between the second-row forward and Hetherington, Wentzel’s contract will be terminated so he can pursue other options.

Hetherington said: “Unfortunately, following relegation, we have had to make some tough decisions about the club to enable us to build a squad that is capable of challenging to return to the Aviva Premiership at the earliest possible opportunity.

“We wish Marco all the best for the future.”

Wentzel, 32, added: “Having spoken with Gary Hetherington, I understand the position that the club is in.

“While it is still a tough decision to leave the club, I hope they can achieve their goals for next season.”