If Anthony Watson chooses to remain in the Premiership and continue his Test career next season, Saracens are being considered as a potential option for him.
Castres, a team in France’s Top 14 league, had previously been the favourite to sign Watson. However, if he moves across the Channel, his international career would be over following the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
Furthermore, it has been reported by Telegraph Sport that Billy Vunipola, who was being pursued by clubs in Japan and France, is now expected to stay with Saracens for the 2023-4 season.
However, with a tighter salary cap in place in the Premiership, retaining both Watson and Vunipola, as well as the arrival of Tom Willis from Union Bordeaux Begles, will have implications for Saracens.
It is possible that as a result, veteran players such as Sean Maitland, Duncan Taylor, and Jackson Wray, who are beloved by the club, may depart this summer.
Saracens sign four:
Below are the details of the four signings by Saracens.
#1. Gareth Simpson from Western Force
The scrum-half, who had a brief spell on loan in November will return in the summer on a two-year deal after impressing during his time at StoneX Stadium.
His try against Northampton Saints was the catalyst for the remarkable comeback victory, and before joining Sarries the 25-year-old made 45 appearances for Worcester Warriors during his spell at Sixways meaning he has plenty of Gallagher Premiership experience.
He is currently in Australia on loan at the Western Force for the remainder of the 22/23 campaign and will then return to North London in the summer.
Simpson is excited to have committed his future to the club.
“I can’t wait to get back into the environment at Saracens. It is a great club and I really enjoyed my time there. I am looking forward to continuing to learn and grow my game with some amazing players and coaches around me and am really grateful for the opportunity.”