Harlequins want to sign Leicester Tigers sensation Freddie Steward and have now made the England fullback a top target for the club next summer.
Steward’s future at Welford Road has been the subject of intense speculation with the speedster having a break clause at the end of the 2022/23 Premiership season according to The Rugby Paper.
The England international was widely expected to join Bristol Bears but latest reports suggest he has made a dramatic U-turn and will now pick between extending his deal at Tigers and a move to Quins.
With Stuart Hogg out of contract at Sandy Park in 2023, Exeter Chiefs was another possible suitor that has been previously mentioned.
Commenting on the rumour, one Quins fan said: “This would be the final piece of the jigsaw for me.”
“Fingers and toes are crossed,” commented another.
A third added: “I very much doubt he will come here. Someone will outbid us… but for his own development Quins should be his top choice IMO.
DID YOU KNOW? He cites Matt Hampson as his idol and is also quick to hail the influence of his parents Ben and Jane for their support
Instagram: @freddiestewardd | Twitter:@freddiesteward_ | TikTok:@freddiesteward
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Rugby Transfer Round-Up: Kyle Sinckler in line to leave Bristol while Worcester exodus begins
RUCK RUGBY takes a look at all the latest transfer stories with their rugby Transfer Round-Up
Rugby Transfer Round-Up:
HUGHES COMPLETES MOVE
Former England number 8 Nathan Hughes will line up for the Tokyo-based side Ricoh Black Rams next season after departing Bristol Bears.
Discussing his move, Hughes said: “‘My move over from the UK, I’m filled with enthusiasm, motivation and I’m very focused. I can’t wait to meet my teammates, coaches, staff, fans and everyone else who are involved with the team.
“I’m ready to overcome new challenges and push myself further. I’m grateful for where I’ve been and what I’ve achieved but I’m excited for where I’m going. Japan is a new adventure.” Read more.
FREEMAN GOING NOWHERE
Northampton Saints have announced that England outside back Tommy Freeman has put pen to paper on a new long-term deal beyond the end of the 2022/23 campaign.
Freeman is one of the rising stars of the English game and made his Test debut during the Red Rose’s victory over the Wallabies in Brisbane last month. Full story: Planet Rugby
WORCESTER EXODUS BEGINS
Reports tonight suggest that Kyle Hatherell will be the first to leave Worcester Warriors as staff will not be paid August wages.
According to The Telegraph, the Top 14 club has agreed a transfer fee for the 27-year-old flanker allowing him to leave immediately
Three more could also follow him out the door. Read more.
RACING MOVE FOR CHRISTIAN WADE
Racing 92 are set to decide on the future of former England winger Christian Wade after the former NFL man impressed during a sevens tournament last weekend.
Full story: The Rugby Paper