It appears that Northampton Saints is facing a tough battle to retain the services of rugby star Courtney Lawes.
The 34-year-old, a former England flanker who bid farewell to international rugby post-World Cup, is currently contemplating his future as his existing contract approaches its conclusion at the season’s end.
Lawes, boasting an impressive record of 105 England caps and five appearances for the British and Irish Lions, has been a standout performer for Northampton this season, attracting significant interest from overseas.
Stuart Lancaster, now at the helm of Racing 92, is reportedly a keen admirer and spearheading the pursuit of Lawes in France.
Meanwhile, Toulon had also expressed a strong desire to secure Lawes’ signature, but denied making him a contract offer with a statement on social media.
They wrote: “The RCT strongly denies this information. Toulon never offer any contract nor talk to Courtney Lawes about signing him.”
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The England XV that Steve Borthwick can’t pick for the 2024 Six Nations
The Guinness Six Nations occupies an incredibly special place in the sporting calendar, with fans anticipating its return each year
The team’s selection pool is restricted as several key players have retired, others like Owen Farrell are on hiatus, and Tom Curry is sidelined for the entire season due to a hip injury.
Ellis Genge is also a major doubt for the opener after suffering a hamstring injury. Borthwick said: “Ellis is coming back from a hamstring injury,
“He’s got more investigations in about a week’s time, then we will have a clearer picture. Hopefully, he’ll be (back) very early in the Six Nations – all being well.'”
Furthermore, a considerable portion of the squad is currently engaged in playing opportunities within the Top 14.
The team below would definitely be in contention to win the Six Nations.
England’s unavailable XV:
15. Jack Nowell (La Rochelle)
14. Henry Arundell (Racing 92)
13. Joe Marchant (Stade Francais)
12. Owen Farrell (Saracens)
11. Christian Wade (Racing 92)
10. Joe Simmonds (Pau)
9. Ben Youngs (Leicester Tigers)