Lions fly-half Finn Russell offered huge money to quit Bath for Premiership rivals
Rugby NewsSunday, 11 May 2025 at 08:20
Bath fly-half Finn Russell is set to be one of the most sought-after names in world rugby next summer, with clubs from England, France, and Japan already jostling for position to secure his services.
Competition: Get a Chance to Watch the Lions in Australia
The Scotland and Lions superstar, who was named in Andy Farrell's 38-man Lions squad this week, will enter the final year of his £1.2m contract with Bath in July, and according to RugbyPass, at least five major clubs are gearing up to open talks.
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Russell’s incredible CV
The 32-year-old is one of the most gifted playmakers in the game, having racked up 397 points in 81 appearances for Scotland. Only Chris Paterson, Greig Laidlaw, and Gavin Hastings have scored more for their country.
A key figure in Glasgow Warriors' PRO12-winning squad in 2015, Russell later became a star at Racing 92, making 107 appearances in five seasons before joining Bath following Scotland’s early exit from the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
Racing reunion on the cards?
One of Russell’s potential destinations is a return to Racing 92, but his move could hinge on the future of another big-name fly-half—Owen Farrell. The former England captain’s contract expires at the same time, and Racing’s decision may depend on his next move. Farrell has so far been linked with a move to Leicester.
Russell remains highly regarded at La Défense Arena, and was even seen deep in conversation with Racing president Laurent Travers after watching Scotland’s 32-15 defeat to South Africa at Murrayfield last weekend.
Who else is in the race?
Stade Français have also thrown their hat in the ring, while over in Japan, Urayasu D-Rocks—coached by Greig Laidlaw—are keen to reunite the Scottish duo in Japan Rugby League One.
Closer to home, former Premiership and Champions Cup winners Saracens are said to be monitoring the situation, while Bristol Bears owner Steve Lansdown has made Russell his top target.
With his dazzling attacking style and big-game experience, Russell’s next move could shake up the rugby landscape—watch this space.
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The Unpicked XV: 2025 British & Irish Lions Tour to Australia
1. Nicky Smith (Wales)
An experienced loosehead with over 50 caps for Wales, Smith remains one of the most consistent scrummagers in the game.
2. Jamie George (England)
The veteran hooker and 2021 Lions tourist missed out this time despite being one of England's most reliable performers and a respected leader.
3. Kyle Sinckler (England)
Known for his explosive ball-carrying and fiery passion, Sinckler’s form and location overseas weren’t enough to secure a third Lions tour.
4. Jonny Gray (Scotland)
A lineout expert and tackling machine, Gray has struggled with injuries recently, ruling him out of contention for Australia.
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5. Grant Gilchrist (Scotland)
One of Scotland’s most experienced locks, Gilchrist’s leadership and work rate have been invaluable, but he misses out once more.
6. Courtney Lawes (England)
A Lions stalwart and former England captain, Lawes confirmed his international retirement earlier this year, ending his Lions journey.
7. Jack Willis (England)
A breakdown menace with a relentless engine, Willis has impressed abroad but may have missed out due to playing outside the UK.
8. Taulupe Faletau (Wales)
One of the finest No.8s of his generation, Faletau has been sidelined through injury, robbing him of a potential fourth Lions tour.
9. Ben White (Scotland)
Scotland's first-choice scrum-half has been a steady performer internationally, but couldn't edge out the fierce competition for the Lions.
10. Owen Farrell (England)
The former Lions captain and England centurion ruled himself out of international duty in late 2024, prioritising family and mental wellbeing.
11. Immanuel Feyi-Waboso (England)
A breakout star of the 2024 Six Nations, the young wing lit up the tournament but narrowly missed selection on this occasion.
12. Robbie Henshaw / Manu Tuilagi (Ireland/England)
Both powerhouse centres boast extensive Lions pedigree. Henshaw’s injury woes and Tuilagi’s patchy form ultimately saw them miss out.
13. Henry Slade (England)
One of the most elegant and versatile backs in the northern hemisphere, Slade is again overlooked despite consistent form.
14. Darcy Graham (Scotland)
The dynamic utility back has added polish to his raw talent but couldn’t squeeze into the highly competitive Lions back three.
15. George Furbank (England)
A confident and elusive fullback, Furbank’s excellent form under Steve Borthwick wasn’t quite enough to force a late inclusion.
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- Jordie Barrett over Damian de Allende is far from being correct. The hype around Dupont is also overreaching, he's probably 4th in the world and has been since the 2023 WC. He also avoids certain matchups which is strange. The rest of the list is pretty good apart from minor subjective biases.JasonMarlow16-09-2026
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