Saints in talks over North exit

Northampton are in “open discussions” with George North’s representatives to end his Saints contract early ahead of Wales’ summer tour.

The Welsh Rugby Union said on Wednesday that North and Gloucester back-row forward Ross Moriarty, who are both returning to Wales to join the Ospreys and Dragons respectively this summer, will tour.

They are among a 30 - man group for Tests against South Africa in Washington DC on 2 June and Argentina in South America on 9 and 16 June. But Worcester wing Josh Adams, Exeter prop Tom as Francis and Bath lock Luke Charteris will not be part of the squad. The Springboks clash falls outside World Rugby’s June Test window, and England- based players have not been made available by Premier ship Rugby for that fixture.

However, regarding Nor th, a Northampton spokes person said: “We are in open discussions with George North’s representatives to end his contract with Northampton Saints early in order to enable him to tour with Wales this summer, given he is leaving the club at the end of the season anyway.”