England Centre Ollie Lawrence Could Ditch Bath Next Summer – Club Already Eyeing His Replacement!

Sunday, 20 October 2024 at 08:24

byRugby Rucker

Bath Rugby have opened talks with their star centre, Ollie Lawrence, whose contract is set to expire at the end of the season.

However, with the club tight on the salary cap, no agreement has been reached yet, and Lawrence has caught the eye of other Premiership clubs, including Leicester and Harlequins.

Join our Breaking News and Top Stories WhatsApp community for all the latest news direct to your phone.

Salary Cap Struggles – Lawrence's Future in Doubt

Lawrence, 25, has been a standout since joining Bath from Worcester in 2022 and was even named Premiership Player of the Season in 2023.

But as Bath's salary cap issues loom large, the Birmingham-born powerhouse could be headed elsewhere. With 27 England caps and 38 appearances for Bath, Lawrence’s departure would be a significant blow.

Enter Sione Tuipulotu?

According to Rugby Pass, Bath has been linked with Scotland centre Sione Tuipulotu as a possible replacement. Tuipulotu, 26, has been a sensation for Glasgow Warriors, helping them win the URC title last season.

His contract is also up at the end of the season, but Glasgow are eager to keep hold of him. Warriors coach Franco Smith has expressed hope that Tuipulotu’s loyalty to the club will see him stay in Scotland.

Will Bath Secure Their Future in the Midfield?

With interest swirling around both Lawrence and Tuipulotu, the next few months could prove pivotal for Bath’s midfield lineup. Can Bath retain their England star or will Tuipulotu be heading to The Rec next season?

Joe Marler and FOUR other major England stars out of contract next summer

As rugby fans eagerly await the 2024/25 season, several high-profile England internationals are approaching the end of their contracts.

While some may stay in the Premiership, others could be tempted by lucrative moves abroad. Here’s a closer look at the key players whose futures are in the balance.

#1. Joe Marler (Harlequins)

“The Last Laugh?”

Joe Marler, the charismatic Harlequins prop, has confirmed he will continue playing into the 2024/25 season but has also hinted at a retirement date on the horizon. Known for his distinctive personality both on and off the field, Marler is already carving out a post-rugby career through his hit podcast, "The Joe Marler Show."

Interestingly, his future plans don’t involve coaching, with Marler expressing a desire to pursue a media career beyond the sports world. This suggests that rugby fans may soon see him transition into new ventures as he bids farewell to professional rugby.

#2. Anthony Watson (Leicester Tigers)

“Flying into the Unknown”

The electrifying Leicester Tigers winger Anthony Watson could be on the verge of a significant career move. With his contract set to expire after the 2024/25 season, Watson may join other Leicester stars like Julian Montoya and Handré Pollard in seeking new opportunities.

Despite missing the 2023 Rugby World Cup due to injury, Watson’s 55 England caps and his five British & Irish Lions Test appearances make him a hot prospect. If England head coach Steve Borthwick does not call him back into the national squad, a lucrative overseas contract may beckon for the 30-year-old.

#3. Max Malins (Bristol Bears)

“Speeding to New Horizons?”

Currently topping the Premiership try-scoring charts, Max Malins is a man in demand. The Bristol Bears flyer joined the club from Saracens on a two-year deal in 2023, and his blistering form has continued since.

While Bristol will be eager to retain their try machine, his omission from England's current setup under Borthwick could lead Malins to consider a lucrative move to France. With his contract up next summer, he might decide that a stint in the Top 14 could be the next chapter in his flourishing career.

Max Malins of England during the Summer Nations Series Rugby match between Wales and England at Principality Stadium on August 5, 2023 in Cardiff, Wales. Photo: Phil Mingo/PPAUK

#4. George Ford (Sale Sharks)

“Northern Loyalty or French Flair?”

George Ford, the Sale Sharks playmaker, has found himself at the centre of speculation. Rumours from France suggest that Toulon are keen to lure Ford to the Top 14, while reports indicate that Clermont Auvergne, Bordeaux-Bègles, and Castres have all expressed interest in the England fly-half.

However, Ford has previously rebuffed interest from French clubs, and there are whispers that he may extend his stay with Sale. Only time will tell whether he remains loyal to the North West or makes a big-money move across the Channel.

#5. Sam Simmonds (Montpellier)

“Sibling Reunion in the South of France?”

Sam Simmonds, the dynamic No. 8, could be in for a reunion with his brother, Joe, at French club Pau. With his future at Montpellier uncertain following Billy Vunipola’s arrival, the club may opt not to renew his contract.

Lyon have also entered the race for Simmonds’ signature, keen to bolster their squad with the former Premiership Player of the Season. Whether Simmonds chooses Pau or Lyon, one thing is clear—his talents will be highly sought after next summer.

Sam Simmonds (Exeter Chiefs, 7 caps) during England Rugby training session at The Lensbury Hotel, Teddington, London on 28 Sept 2021. Photo: Phil Mingo/PPAUK

World Cup winners Martin Johnson and Jason Robinson agree on their toughest ever opponent

Peter O'Mahony Announces Rugby Retirement And Shocks Everyone With His Next Career Move