Saracens are set to take a bold step by placing their faith in Alex Lozowski as the unexpected replacement for Owen Farrell in the crucial fly-half position next season, following Farrell’s departure to Racing 92 in the French Top 14.
The two-year deal signed by Farrell, effective from 1 July, marks the end of an era for Saracens, which saw the club secure six Premiership titles and three Champions Cups under Farrell’s leadership as the playmaker.
Amid speculations about potential replacements, including controversial figure Paddy Jackson and Italy’s skilled fly-half Paulo Garbs, Saracens, according to The Rugby Paper, have chosen to gamble on the versatile Alex Lozowski. The club reportedly withdrew from pursuing Paddy Jackson and opted for Lozowski as the starting fly-half for the upcoming season.
Lozowski, an England international, joined Saracens in 2016, initially as a fly-half, and showcased his adaptability by featuring in various positions, including center and wing. His journey in professional sports almost took a different route, with football attempting to lure him away from rugby during his time at Chelsea FC’s Academy until the age of 16.
However, Lozowski decided to pursue rugby, joined the Leeds Carnegie Academy, and eventually secured a deal with Wasps after completing his degree in Economics at Leeds University.
Having spent two successful years at the Ricoh Arena before moving to Saracens, Lozowski quickly made an impact in north London, scoring four tries in his initial five Premiership games. He became a key contributor to Saracens’ two Premiership and European successes. Lozowski earned an England call-up for the tour to Argentina in June 2017 and has accumulated five international appearances since.
After a fruitful loan spell in Montpellier in the summer of 2021, Lozowski returned to Saracens, delivering a Player of the Match performance against Bristol to kick off the season with a crucial win. Saracens’ decision to entrust him with the starting fly-half role reflects their confidence in Lozowski’s abilities and potential to fill the void left by the departing Owen Farrell.
Saracens transfer targets:
Saracens’ director of rugby, Mark McCall, finds himself with financial resources to bolster his squad. Racing will reportedly pay around £500,000 to secure Farrell’s release from the remaining year of his contract.
Additionally, Farrell’s hefty salary of nearly £800,000 per year will be removed from Saracens’ wage bill.
However, the challenge of replacing him at fly-half is anticipated to be a formidable task for the club.
#1. Jonny May & Joe Cokanasiga
London’s Premiership champions are in the early stages of discussions with England wingers Jonny May and Joe Cokanasiga regarding a potential move to the capital at the conclusion of the season.
However, there’s no guarantee that either player will put pen to paper.
The Saracens is actively exploring options for the back three in the upcoming season, considering experienced Scotland and Lions tourist Sean Maitland, along with Alex Lewington and Ben Harris are set to leave the club.
May well and truly announced himself on the international stage with an extraordinary maiden Test try against New Zealand in November 2014.