DEAL DONE: Owen Farrell has departed Saracens, signs two-year contract
Rugby NewsMonday, 22 January 2024 at 19:16
Owen Farrell is set to bid farewell to English rugby at the conclusion of this season, as the Saracens fly-half secures a lucrative three-season contract with Racing 92.
The exclusive scoop was first reported by RUCK earlier today, revealing an agreement between Saracens and the Parisian club.
The Telegraph later confirmed the blockbuster move, disclosing that Farrell has officially inked a three-year deal with Racing 92.
A statement from Racing read: “Racing 92 can confirm the signing of Owen Farrell (32) for our men’s team. The England international has joined for two seasons and will join up with the ciel et blanc from July 1 2024.”
The sale of Farrell is seen as a strategic move to facilitate the re-signing of Maro Itoje with the rugby club.
New regulations stipulate that, starting next season, clubs can only have one marquee player. With Itoje and Farrell being the highest earners at the club, adhering to the salary cap necessitates parting ways with one of them. A previous breach of these rules led to their relegation to the Championship.
The Rugby Paper reports that Saracens has set a €600,000 (£515,000) price tag for the services of England's World Cup captain, Owen Farrell, as a prerequisite for his potential move to Racing 92. Sources now indicate that a fee in the ballpark of £450,000 has been agreed upon.
Billy Vunipola transfer latest:
The formidable No 8 is at a crossroads, deliberating between staying with Saracens or embarking on a lucrative venture in the Far East.
Previously associated with the Tokyo-based team in Japan’s burgeoning League One, the 31-year-old opted to extend his contract with the Premiership champions.
However, following a limited role in the recent World Cup, the once stalwart of the England pack finds himself reassessing his career trajectory.
Sources from Mail Sport reveal ongoing discussions with Sungoliath, while Saracens have also extended a new contract offer.
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List of Owen Farrell replacements:
Concurrently, Saracens is exploring available options to fill the void left by Farrell in the event that the transfer materialises.
#1. Damian Willemse
In his usual fullback role, he showcases exceptional skills, yet his versatility extends to playing as a fly-half, winger, or inside centre.
Having initially joined Saracens on a brief stint in 2019, the playmaker missed the opportunity to leave a lasting mark when called up by South Africa as a replacement for the injured Jesse Kriel during the Rugby World Cup pool stage.
Since then, he has evolved into a formidable player, making him an excellent addition to the Saracens squad.
#2. Paolo Garbisi
Lauded as a fly-half with sharp intellect both on and off the field, Garbisi is recognized for his astute rugby skills and decision-making prowess.
Balancing his rugby pursuits with a commitment to law studies, the young talent has already achieved notable milestones in his professional rugby journey, signaling a bright future in the sport.
As a current member of Montpellier, the prospect of him stepping in for Farrell makes for an enticing and exciting possibility.
#3. Paddy Jackson
controversial option. The ex-Ireland international, previously implicated in allegations of rape and sexual assault in 2017 alongside Stuart Olding, Blane McIlroy, and Rory Harrison, was arrested and questioned.
Despite being found not guilty in March 2018 and resuming his rugby career with Perpignan, Jackson remains a divisive figure in Ireland and England, particularly following his recent tenure with London Irish.
With the dissolution of the Exiles, Jackson made a move to Lyon. Now, there are indications that he might be making a return to the Premiership, potentially filling the void left by Farrell, according to The Rugby Paper.
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#4. Adam Hastings
Facing an uncertain future at Gloucester with contract renewal prospects looking bleak, the son of Scotland's rugby icon Gavin has grappled with injuries since becoming Kingsholm's marquee signing in 2022.
Despite the setbacks, his undeniable talent shines through.
A Scotland international, he might just be the kind of player Saracens could consider taking a gamble on, given his potential to be an exceptional talent at his peak.
Adam Hastings of Gloucester Rugby kicks the conversion during the Gallagher Premiership Rugby Match between Gloucester Rugby and Exeter Chiefs at Kingsholm on 28 October. Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK
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