In the latest twist of transfer talks, Northampton Saints and ex-England versatile forward Courtney Lawes is reportedly exploring a move to France, as per French media reports.
Having bid farewell to international rugby post last year’s Rugby World Cup in France, the 34-year-old is said to be in discussions with Provence, a PRO D2 team.
Rugbyrama spilled the beans on Sunday, disclosing that Lawes paid a visit to Provence’s facilities over the weekend and engaged with the staff of the French second division club.
“The two parties discussed the Provençal project and a one or two year contract. The ball is now in the court of the player and those around him,” said the report.
Meanwhile, Toulon had also expressed a strong desire to secure Lawes’ signature, but denied making him a contract offer with a statement on social media.
They wrote: “The RCT strongly denies this information. Toulon never offer any contract nor talk to Courtney Lawes about signing him.”
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The England XV that Steve Borthwick can’t pick for the 2024 Six Nations
The Guinness Six Nations occupies an incredibly special place in the sporting calendar, with fans anticipating its return each year
The team’s selection pool is restricted as several key players have retired, others like Owen Farrell are on hiatus, and Tom Curry is sidelined for the entire season due to a hip injury.
Ellis Genge is also a major doubt for the opener after suffering a hamstring injury. Borthwick said: “Ellis is coming back from a hamstring injury,
“He’s got more investigations in about a week’s time, then we will have a clearer picture. Hopefully, he’ll be (back) very early in the Six Nations – all being well.'”
Furthermore, a considerable portion of the squad is currently engaged in playing opportunities within the Top 14.
The team below would definitely be in contention to win the Six Nations.
England’s unavailable XV:
15. Jack Nowell (La Rochelle)
14. Henry Arundell (Racing 92)
13. Joe Marchant (Stade Francais)
12. Owen Farrell (Saracens)
11. Christian Wade (Racing 92)
10. Joe Simmonds (Pau)
9. Ben Youngs (Leicester Tigers)