There is always a mad scramble to secure the signings of the most prestigious talents available on free transfers following the expiration of their contracts.
So, who will gamble, who will stick and which stars will be forcing rugby’s world elite into a bidding war at the end of the season?
15. Anthony Watson (Bath & England): The black, blue and whites will be desperate to hold onto the versatile speedster, but a report in the French press suggests that he could be joining Racing 92 ahead of the 2021/22 season.
14. Keith Earls (Ireland & Munster: The 32-year-old has won 84 caps for Ireland, scoring 30 tries, last penned a new contract in 2018, and is set to be a free agent. Reports in Ireland suggest the speedster will retire, but he could certainly do a job for most teams in Europe.
13. Huw Jones (Glasgow Warriors & Scotland): In 2017, Glasgow Warriors announced that Jones had signed a contract until at least 2021. However, if reports are to be believed, the Scotland centre is keen on a move to the Gallagher Premiership with Leicester Tigers and London Irish very interested.
12.Manu Tuilagi (Sale Sharks): The powerhouse could depart the AJ Bell Stadium in 2021 when his contract expires. The 29-year-old, who moved to the North West following his dramatic exit from Leicester Tigers, is reportedly being lined up to join Racing 92 in the TOP14 ahead of the 2021/22 season.
11. Joe Cokanasiga (Bath & England): The powerhouse arrived at Bath from London Irish on a three-year deal in 2018. He’s since became a regular pick for England head coach Eddie Jones and featured at the 2019 Rugby World Cup. The 22-year-old won’t be short of options if he chooses to leave the. rec.