Taste of Bordeaux on the menu for Lawes

MARO ITOJE is close to signing a new multi-year deal with Saracens that could be worth more than £2.5million. The 23-year-old is negotiating a three or fouryear deal worth upwards of £600,000 per season. Montpellier owner Mohed Altrad has publicly stated his interest in the lock but, unsurprisingly, Itoje wants to remain at Saracens to pursue his England ambitions.

BORDEAUX’S English coaching double act Rory Teague and Joe Worsley have been sounded out about signing Northampton lock Courtney Lawes next year. Lawes, who is out of contract after the World Cup, has been mooted to French clubs for a big-money contract. He has previously revealed his desire to ‘get out and explore’ and is yet to sign a contract extension at Franklin’s Gardens. Sale Sharks are understood to be interested in the 29-year-old (above) but Premiership clubs are not allowed to approach rival players until January 1.