According to Racing 92 owner Jacky Lorenzetti, there is expected to be a bidding war from clubs in France and Japan for Maro Itoje when his contract at Saracens expires.
As a result, the England lock, who was previously linked with a move to the Top 14 when Saracens were relegated, could potentially become the world’s highest-paid player, demanding a significant salary plus bonuses.
Asked if Itoje wanted too much money, Lorezetti told rugbyrama.fr : “Yes, it was unpayable.
“You know, we weren’t the only ones at the time: Bordeaux, Lyon, Montpellier were all called upon. We were talking about a salary of over £1m plus bonuses.
“That represented 10 per cent of our payroll. We made the choice not to go any further. I think he doesn’t want to move, so they come out with ridiculous demands.”
Toulon, who have shown interest in Courtney Lawes lately, are looking for a high-profile lock to replace Eben Etzebeth after the Springbok powerhouse returned to South Africa.
There is also been signifiant interest in Japan, where he could join a number of his current teammates.
According to The Rugby Paper, Billy Vunipola could be joining England teammate Manu Tuilagi in Japan and has enlisted the help of former Red Rose head coach Eddie Jones.
All three players named above have been linked to Tokyo Sungoliath, where Jones continues to hold significant influence as a long-standing consultant.
The role caused significant controversy for Jones during his time as England boss.
This season, they boast big-money names such as Wallabies star Samu Kerevi and former All Black Aaron Cruden
Tuilagi’s exit from Sale took a huge forward step as Sharks confirmed the signing of inside-centre Sam Bedlow for next season
Alex Sanderson admitted only last week that an extension for Tuilagi was proving difficult to nail down.
Five more England stars won’t be able to play again after the 2023 World Cup
Five England international rugby players will not be able to represent their country in the iconic white jersey after announcing their move to France following the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
#1. David Ribbans
Northampton Saints have confirmed that the forward will depart the Club at the end of the 2022/23 season. Reports suggest he will join Toulon.
The 27-year-old lock has pulled on the Black, Green and Gold jersey 115 times to date, starting 98 matches for Northampton and scoring 17 tries so far.
“As a coaching group, we are very proud of the progress Dave has made during his time at Saints,” said Director of Rugby, Phil Dowson.
“He arrived in Northampton as a 21-year-old without many Super Rugby appearances to his name. He will leave as a fully-fledged England international and a proven performer in the Gallagher Premiership, one of the most attritional and competitive leagues in the world.
“You always want to create an environment for players where they can work hard, thrive, win matches and be successful on the international stage. Sometimes, that means players become attractive propositions for other clubs.
“Dave leaves to pursue a playing opportunity in France next season. It’s disappointing to lose a player of his calibre, and we were surprised Dave wanted to leave the Club at this time.
“But he is of course a professional, and will be putting all his efforts in his final months in Northampton to ensure the team is as successful as possible. We will wish him well after that.”
