Leicester Tigers target FIVE new signings as they look to push on next season

Wednesday, 11 May 2022 at 09:47

byRugby Rucker

LEICESTER TIGERS boss Steve Borthwick is working on new signings as he continues his rebuild at Welford Road.

With Handre Pollard the only confirmed arrival for next season thus far, Tigers are working hard to strengthen their squad with the likes of George Ford, Ellis Genge and Nemani Nadolo all set to depart.

Check out five now probably signings below.

#1. James Cronin

Age: 31
Position: Prop

According to the Irish Times, Tigers have reportedly already secured their replacement for Ellis Genge, who departs for Bristol Bears this summer. Cronin, who has won two caps for Ireland, was released by Munster due to financial constraints in 2021 before joining Biarritz.

This season he has started in 12 of his 13 appearances in the Top 14 at Biarritz, whose relegation at the end of the season may have triggered a release in his contract.

#2. Jimmy Gopperth

Age: 38
Position: Fly-half/Centre

Gopperth, who turns 39 in June, has been with Wasps since 2015 and scored the winning points as Wasps ended Leicester’s 16 game unbeaten run earlier in the season.

A move to Tigers potentially could see the fly-half/centre take up a player/coach role like the one created for fellow veteran, Richard Wigglesworth.

#3. Anthony Watson

Age: 28
Position: Winger/Fullback

The England and British and Irish Lions speedster, who has been out injured since October, has been offered a new deal to stay at Bath but stalled on putting pen to paper.

And now, according to Telegraph Sport, Watson has signed a 'short-term' deal that is expected to be officially announced next week.

#4. Christian Wade

Age: 30
Position: Winger

he 30-year-old, who quit rugby in 2018 after he became frustrated with his international exile, has already been linked with a move to Leicester Tigers.

Adding further fuel to the fire, he’s arrived back in England after teasing what he was going to do next. He’s already been linked with Leicester Tigers or a return to Wasps.

#5. Phil Cokanasiga

Age: 24
Position: Centre

The brother of England international and Bath winger Joe, he made his Exiles’ European and Premiership debut in the 2019/20 season.

Cokanasiga took his appearance tally for London Irish into double figures during the 2020/21 season and was called up to the England U20 squad for the U20 Six Nations Championships during the summer of 2021.