Two PRO D2 clubs are reportedly making substantial efforts to entice former England forward Courtney Lawes across the Channel in the upcoming season.
As Lawes’ contract with Northampton Saints concludes at the end of the current season, speculation surrounds his potential move to France, marking a potential conclusion to his illustrious career.
The 34-year-old, boasting 105 caps and ranking as England’s fifth-most capped men’s international, retired from Test playing duties post the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
Lawes debuted in 2009 against Australia and played a pivotal role in four World Cups and two British & Irish Lions tours. Having captained England 12 times, he now plans to step aside to prioritize family time.
According to a report from Actu Rugby, Provence Rugby, a PRO D2 club, has presented an enticing offer of approximately €23,000 per month (£20,000 per month and £276,000 per annum). The proposal extends to covering private school fees for Lawes’ children.
However, the report suggests that Brive, owned by Englishman Simon Gillham, has outbid Provence with an offer of approximately €35,000 per month (£30,000 per month and £360,000 per annum). It is believed that Brive has secured Lawes’ services unless Northampton can present a competitive counteroffer.
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Highest-paid rugby players in the world 2024
RUCK.co.uk examines the top six highest-paid players in the world. We’ve based our figures on reports from trusted news sources and databases to boost our accuracy.
All figures mentioned are before tax – unless specified – and do not include bonuses, extra fees and players’ various sponsorship deals which, in some cases, can instantly double their annual income.
6. Handre Pollard (Leicester Tigers) – £610,000
During his tenure at Montpellier, the Springbok fly-half was known as one of the highest-earning players in the sport, purportedly receiving an annual salary exceeding one million.
However, his transfer to Leicester Tigers entailed a reduction in pay, although he is still believed to be earning a respectable sum at Welford Road.
5. Antoine Dupont (Toulouse) – £700,000
The Les Bleus’ talisman is undoubtedly leading one of the most exciting teams on the international stage, all while helping to change the perception of the sport.
