Harlequins make Freddie Steward prime transfer target for next summer

Friday, 02 September 2022 at 21:36

byRugby Rucker

Harlequins want to sign Leicester Tigers sensation Freddie Steward and have now made the England fullback a top target for the club next summer.

Steward’s future at Welford Road has been the subject of intense speculation with the speedster having a break clause at the end of the 2022/23 Premiership season according to The Rugby Paper.

The England international was widely expected to join Bristol Bears but latest reports suggest he has made a dramatic U-turn and will now pick between extending his deal at Tigers and a move to Quins.

With Stuart Hogg out of contract at Sandy Park in 2023, Exeter Chiefs was another possible suitor that has been previously mentioned.

Commenting on the rumour, one Quins fan said: "This would be the final piece of the jigsaw for me."

"Fingers and toes are crossed," commented another.

A third added: "I very much doubt he will come here. Someone will outbid us... but for his own development Quins should be his top choice IMO.

DID YOU KNOW? He cites Matt Hampson as his idol and is also quick to hail the influence of his parents Ben and Jane for their support

Instagram: @freddiestewardd | Twitter:@freddiesteward_ | TikTok:@freddiesteward

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Rugby Transfer Round-Up: Kyle Sinckler in line to leave Bristol while Worcester exodus begins

RUCK RUGBY
takes a look at all the latest transfer stories with their rugby Transfer Round-Up

Rugby Transfer Round-Up:

HUGHES COMPLETES MOVE

Former England number 8 Nathan Hughes will line up for the Tokyo-based side Ricoh Black Rams next season after departing Bristol Bears.

Discussing his move, Hughes said: “‘My move over from the UK, I’m filled with enthusiasm, motivation and I’m very focused. I can’t wait to meet my teammates, coaches, staff, fans and everyone else who are involved with the team.

“I’m ready to overcome new challenges and push myself further. I’m grateful for where I’ve been and what I’ve achieved but I’m excited for where I’m going. Japan is a new adventure.” Read more.

FREEMAN GOING NOWHERE

Northampton Saints have announced that England outside back Tommy Freeman has put pen to paper on a new long-term deal beyond the end of the 2022/23 campaign.

Freeman is one of the rising stars of the English game and made his Test debut during the Red Rose’s victory over the Wallabies in Brisbane last month. Full story: Planet Rugby

WORCESTER EXODUS BEGINS

Reports tonight suggest that Kyle Hatherell will be the first to leave Worcester Warriors as staff will not be paid August wages.

According to The Telegraph, the Top 14 club has agreed a transfer fee for the 27-year-old flanker allowing him to leave immediately

Three more could also follow him out the door. Read more.

RACING MOVE FOR CHRISTIAN WADE

Racing 92 are set to decide on the future of former England winger Christian Wade after the former NFL man impressed during a sevens tournament last weekend.

Full story: The Rugby Paper

BATH SEEING DOUBLE

Bath are the latest club to target Sale Sharks twins Dan and Jean-Luc du Preez, below, as potential signings when their contracts run out at the end of the season.

Full story: The Rugby Paper

SINCKLER WANTED BY LEICESTER

Bristol Bears prop Kyle Sinckler will likely depart Ashton Gate when his contract expires at the end of the 2022/23 Gallagher Premiership season.

England’s premier tighthead is already attracting numerous clubs with Leicester Tigers eyeing Sinckler as a replacement for Dan Cole, who is rumoured to be retiring at the end of the season.Read more.

GLOUCESTER SIGN MERCER

After much speculation Gloucester Rugby have confirmed the signing of Zach Mercer ahead of the 2023/24 season.

The Leeds born Number 8 is currently plying his trade in Montpellier, having signed for the Top 14 side in 2021 after five years with Bath Rugby. Read more.

SARRIES TEMPT KRUIS

Saracens are attempting to lure former England lock George Kruis out of retirement, according to a report from The Rugby Paper.

The 32-year-old, who made 134 appearances for the men in black previously, hung up his boots at the end of last season after playing for the Barbarians against England and signed off by kicking a back heel conversion. Read more.

PROP SIGNS NEW DEAL

Loosehead prop Emmanuel Iyogun has signed a new "long-term" contract with Northampton Saints ahead of the new Premiership campaign.

The 21-year-old has made 25 appearances since his first-team debut in 2020, 20 of them last season.

Full story: BBC

GOODE-BY ONCE AGAIN

Saracens fullback Alex Goode is being lined up for another stint in Japan when his contract with former Premiership and European champions expires next summer.

Full story: The Rugby Paper