Transfer News: Ben Earl could make shock cross-code switch

According to City AM, both Warrington Wolves and Wigan Warriors are keeping close tabs on the Saracens back-row, with a potential move north being explored after the next Rugby World Cup.

Super League clubs are able to benefit from salary cap dispensation when recruiting union players who have never played league professionally—making a move for Earl financially attractive, particularly with fresh NRL investment looming over the competition.

Wigan have already experimented with cross-code recruitment, signing Christian Wade from Gloucester Rugby for a short stint before he returned to union with Newcastle Red Bulls.

Meanwhile, Warrington previously handed an opportunity to former England centre Luther Burrell during his spell in rugby league between 2019 and 2020.

Earl only signed a new contract with Saracens in 2025, reportedly keeping him at the club until 2029. However, the 28-year-old has openly spoken about his admiration for rugby league.

“I love league, I watch more league than union but I don’t really know the ins and outs,” he said last month.

“I would have loved to do it. If someone said, ‘what would be your one regret?’ it would probably be not giving it a go at one point.”

This is crazy. Earl is not just another player—he’s a key figure for England and tied into a long-term deal at Saracens. Yet the fact Super League clubs are even circling shows genuine ambition to lure top-tier union talent. A switch still feels highly unlikely, but it’s no longer unthinkable.